Erik ten Hag releases furious statement after being sacked after just TWO games in charge

Erik ten Hag has angrily accused Bayer Leverkusen of never giving him the trust he deserved after the Bundesliga outfit made the decision to remove the former Manchester United manager from his post after just two league games.

Ten Hag, 55, was selected by the former German champions as Xabi Alonso's successor after the popular coach decided to move onto pastures new with Real Madrid at the end of last season. But speculation over the Dutchman's future was rife at the weekend after Leverkusen conceded at the death to draw 3-3 with Werder Bremen.

That result meant Leverkusen had just one point to show from Ten Hag's first two games in the Bundesliga. Confirmation that the club's top brass had opted to take nuclear action by relieving Ten Hag of his duties was confirmed on Monday.

And shortly after the news had broken, Ten Hag took aim at his former employers for taking such an "unprecedented" decision in an explosive statement.

READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Guehi to Liverpool move OFF, Donnarumma updates, Man Utd latest on Deadline Day

READ MORE: Erik ten Hag brutally sacked by Bayer Leverkusen after just TWO league games in charge

“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 wrote. “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.

“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. 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.”

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.