News Focus
- Bayer Leverkusen are hunting for a new manager to replace Kasper Hjulmand.
- Flamengo boss Filipe Luis has emerged as a leading candidate for the role.
- FC Girona manager Michel is also under consideration by the German club.
- Hjulmand is expected to take charge of his final match against Hamburg this weekend.
- Technical advisor Keld Bordinggaard will keep his position at the club.
German media report that officials at Bayer Leverkusen have drawn up a shortlist of managers to take over from Kasper Hjulmand. The Bundesliga side wants a fresh face on the touchline after a disappointing spell.
The first target is Filipe Luis. Club chief Fernando Carro and sporting director Simon Rolfes both like the Brazilian for the post. They actually wanted to sign him as a player in the past. The 40-year-old famously played for Atlético Madrid and Chelsea.
He now manages Flamengo in Brazil. Last year, he guided them to victory in the Copa Libertadores. His success in South America has caught the attention of the Rhineland club.
The second option is Michel, who currently manages FC Girona in Spain. The German side is watching him closely. Oliver Glasner remains a possibility, though a move back to the Bundesliga looks doubtful for the Austrian.
Kicker magazine reports that Saturday’s clash with Hamburger SV could be Hjulmand’s final game in charge. However, his assistant Keld Bordinggaard will stay at the club. He works as a technical advisor. “He will keep working for us,” Rolfes stated. This follows rumours that Bordinggaard had to leave his office.
Meanwhile, coach Rogier Meijer might exit. Dutch side Sparta Rotterdam want him as their new manager.
The new boss must play possession football and show passion and energy. All three candidates offer these traits. The club needs to decide fast. They must complete their squad planning for next season.