Rolfes dismisses Hjulmand speculation, insists Leverkusen coach will stay

Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has publicly backed head coach Kasper Hjulmand, dismissing mounting speculation that the Dane could be replaced this summer. In an interview with Sky Germany, Rolfes confirmed the club's intention to honour Hjulmand's contract, which runs until 2027, stating there is "no other decision" regarding his future.

Rolfes's comments come amid a difficult period for the club, which was eliminated from the DFB-Pokal semi-finals by Bayern Munich on Wednesday. Despite the external noise, Rolfes sought to clarify the internal stance. "Yes. He has a contract until 2027. There is no other decision," Rolfes said. "Even if everything in the media seems clear, it isn’t. That’s the situation." His remarks directly counter media narratives linking Leverkusen with potential successors.

The immediate focus for Leverkusen is securing a top-four finish in the Bundesliga to qualify for next season's Champions League. The club currently sits in sixth place with four matches remaining, starting with a trip to local rivals Köln this Saturday. Rolfes emphasised the importance of the run-in, saying, "I am firmly convinced that we have the opportunity to qualify for the Champions League if we win those games."

Hjulmand, who took charge in July 2023, led Denmark to the semi-finals of Euro 2020 and the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup before moving to the Bundesliga. His first season at Leverkusen has been inconsistent, with the team showing flashes of promise but struggling for consistency in the league. The public backing from Rolfes provides a vote of confidence as the season reaches its climax, aiming to stabilise the club's direction ahead of a crucial summer transfer window.

For Leverkusen, stability in the dugout is now seen as a priority to build upon the existing project. The confirmation ends short-term uncertainty and allows the squad to concentrate fully on the final push for European football. The decision signals that the club's hierarchy is looking beyond immediate results and is prepared to continue its long-term planning under Hjulmand's leadership.