Tribal Football

Ten Hag's nightmare start as Leverkusen bow to Flamengo U20s

Ten Hag's nightmare start as Leverkusen bow to Flamengo U20s
Ten Hag's nightmare start as Leverkusen bow to Flamengo U20sAGIF / ddp USA / Profimedia

Bayer Leverkusen suffered a nightmare start to Erik ten Hag’s reign, with his debut ending in a shocking 5-1 defeat to Flamengo U20 side.

The German giants mostly fielded a second-string lineup, but key players like Arthur, Jonas Hofmann, and Victor Boniface still featured in the match. Unfortunately, Arthur also scored an own goal.

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With key departures such as Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah, and club legend Xabi Alonso, this result only heightens concerns that the 2025-26 season could be one of transition and challenges for the club.

Ten Hag will face tough questions in Germany following this result. Leverkusen will have a chance to reset under their new manager when the Bundesliga season begins against Hoffenheim on August 23.