Erik ten Hag: German Media Cast Verdict on Bayer Leverkusen Boss After Bundesliga Debut

German media have given their initial verdict on Erik ten Hag after the former Manchester United boss lost his first Bundesliga game in charge of Bayer Leverkusen. Ten Hag suffered what may have been the worst possible start to his Leverkusen tenure when he oversaw a defeat to Flamengo's Under-20s in pre-season, but did at least win his first competitive game in charge – a 4-0 victory over Sonnenhof Grossaspach in the first round of the German Cup.

However, when it came to the first league game of the season, there was nothing Ten Hag could do to avoid another defeat as Hoffenheim came from behind to stun the hosts and take all three points. And now, German media have made their feelings clear on Ten Hag.

German Media Slam Ten Hag's Leverkusen

Despite new signing Jarell Quansah continuing his positive transition after joining from Liverpool by giving Ten Hag's side the lead early on, the hosts were unable to stamp their authority. Fisnik Asllani equalised for Hoffenheim before the half-hour mark, while Tim Lemperle scored what proved to be the winner shortly after half-time.

In the aftermath of defeat, the Get German Football News outlet tore apart the performance, pointing out the clear differences between Ten Hag's team and that of Xabi Alonso’s during his reign in charge.

In their analysis of the game, they said: "Under Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen became so dominant and it was always going to be difficult to replicate that so early this season under a new head coach. Hoffenheim ended the first half with more shots, a higher xG from open play – and were impressive with their new look attack of Asllani and Lemperle.

"Ten Hag had spoken of playing high-intensity football, but that wasn’t on show. There was no supply to Patrik Schick. Ilzer came with a game plan and it was executed to perfection by Hoffenheim."

Even the official Bundesliga Live-Ticker was less than complimentary of the Dutchman's outfit, adding: "Hoffenheim inflict a Bundesliga debut defeat on Erik ten Hag. Leverkusen took the lead, but otherwise struggled against a very well-drilled Hoffenheim team."

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Ten Hag also lost his first Manchester United league game in charge by a score of 2-1 against Brighton.

Ten Hag was also delayed in his post-match media obligations as he wanted to speak to his players before addressing the media, who would no doubt have plenty of questions for the already under-fire tactician.

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