Bayer Leverkusen have reached an agreement to appoint Carles Martínez as their new head coach, according to multiple reports from Marca, Sky Germany, and Bild. The 42-year-old Spaniard is set to move from French club Toulouse to take charge at the BayArena, replacing the soon-to-depart Kasper Hjulmand.
Martínez is currently out of contract following a three-year spell with Toulouse, where he oversaw a period of stability and development. While details of the financial terms were not immediately available, reports indicate he is expected to sign a two-year deal with Leverkusen. His arrival signals a clear intention from the Bundesliga side to move in a new direction after a disappointing season.
Prior to his time in France, Martínez built a reputation as a highly-regarded youth coach, spending time with both Espanyol and FC Barcelona. He honed his skills developing young talent within the renowned academies of both Spanish giants, gaining valuable experience in player development and tactical implementation. This background could prove particularly beneficial at Leverkusen, a club known for its commitment to nurturing promising players.
Kasper Hjulmand’s departure has been anticipated for some time, with reports suggesting the club had lost faith in his ability to deliver consistent results. Despite a promising start to his tenure, Leverkusen struggled to build momentum, ultimately finishing outside of the Champions League qualification spots. The club confirmed Hjulmand had not yet been formally dismissed, but the appointment of Martínez all but confirms his exit.
This appointment represents a significant gamble for Leverkusen, bringing in a coach with limited experience at the highest level of club management. However, Martínez’s strong tactical acumen and proven ability to work with young players could prove to be a valuable asset as Leverkusen look to rebuild and challenge for a return to European football's elite.
