Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has said that he was surprised to be sacked by Bayer Leverkusen after 2 games.
He recently revealed that parting ways with a coach after just two matches is unprecedented.
Speaking to the press, Erik shared that building a good team requires time and trust, and he was not given both at the German club.
According to him, a new manager should automatically earn the right to be given time to assemble his squad and instil his ideas in the players.
Ten Hag stated that it is a shame that he was not given the opportunity to implement his style of play at Bayer Leverkusen.
“The decision by Bayer Leverkusen’s management this morning to put me on a leave of absence came as a complete surprise.
To part ways with a coach after just two league matches is unprecedented.
This summer, many key players who were part of past successes left the squad. Building a new, cohesive team is a careful process that requires both time and trust.
A new coach deserves the space to implement his vision, set the standards, shape the squad and leave his mark on the style of play,” he said.
Confirming that he took the Leverkusen job with total conviction to succeed, the Holland coach noted that the sack proves that his relationship with the club’s owners was never based on trust.
He concluded by praising the club’s supporters for their love and passion during his time in Germany.
“I started this job with full conviction and energy, but unfortunately, the management was not willing to grant me the time and trust I needed, which I deeply regret. I feel this was never a relationship based on mutual trust.
Throughout my career, every season I have been able to see through to the end as a coach has brought success. Clubs that placed their trust in me have been rewarded with success and silverware.
Finally, I would like to thank the Bayer Leverkusen supporters for their warmth and passion, and I wish the squad and staff every success for the remainder of the season,” he added.
