Former Chelsea and Atletico Madrid star could become Bayer Leverkusen head coach
The management of German club Bayer Leverkusen has identified the primary candidate for the position of new head coach. Former Chelsea and Atletico Madrid defender Filipe Luis is the top contender to take charge at the BayArena. The Brazilian specialist is expected to replace Kasper Hjulmand following a disappointing season for the Bundesliga side. This is reported by Goal.com reports .
According to Sky Sport, the 40-year-old coach is the personal choice of the club's board. Leverkusen is currently finalizing the process of parting ways with Kasper Hjulmand. Hjulmand had replaced Erik ten Hag after the second matchday of last season, but he failed to deliver the results expected by the management. Although his contract runs until 2027, the club will announce his departure as soon as an agreement with the new coach is reached.
Filipe Luis ended his professional playing career at the beginning of 2024. He made 333 appearances for Atletico Madrid and earned 44 caps for the Brazil national team. His coaching career has developed at a rapid pace: taking charge of Flamengo in September 2024, he quickly secured the Brazilian league title and the prestigious Copa Libertadores.
The past season was unsuccessful for Bayer Leverkusen. The team failed to achieve its main goal—securing a Champions League spot—losing out in the battle against Stuttgart. Ultimately, the team finished in sixth place and will compete in the Europa League next season. The appointment of Filipe Luis is expected to be a crucial step toward changing the club's philosophy and returning to the ranks of Europe's elite teams.
