Kasper Hjulmand will receive a severance package of approximately €2 million from Bayer Leverkusen following the termination of his contract, according to Bild. The Bundesliga club confirmed last week that Hjulmand would be leaving less than a year after joining, with Carles Martínez Novell appointed as his successor.
The 54-year-old’s departure comes with a year remaining on his original deal, necessitating the compensation payment. Hjulmand arrived at Leverkusen in September 2025, replacing Erik ten Hag, and oversaw a fifth-place finish in the Bundesliga during his tenure. He also guided the team to the semi-finals of the DFB-Pokal and the round of 16 in the Champions League.
Prior to joining Leverkusen, Hjulmand had established himself as a respected coach in his native Denmark, notably leading FC Nordsjælland to a Danish Superliga title in 2012. He also managed Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga from 2014 to 2017, gaining further experience in the German top flight. His appointment at Leverkusen was seen as a move to build a long-term project, focusing on developing young talent and implementing an attacking style of play.
While Leverkusen enjoyed a respectable season under Hjulmand, reaching the knockout stages of the Champions League and maintaining a competitive position in the Bundesliga, the club evidently sought a change in direction. The appointment of Martínez Novell suggests a potential shift in tactical approach or club philosophy. Leverkusen will hope the new manager can build on the foundations laid by Hjulmand and push for a Champions League qualification spot next season.
The financial implications of Hjulmand’s exit represent a significant outlay for Leverkusen, but one they were obligated to make given the terms of his contract. The club will now focus on supporting Martínez Novell as he prepares for the upcoming campaign, aiming for greater consistency and a stronger challenge for domestic and European honours.
