Erik ten Hag said Bayer Leverkusen's decision to dismiss him after just two Bundesliga matches in charge came as a complete surprise and that the club's hierarchy had not shown enough trust in him.

Leverkusen lost their opening league fixture 2-1 at home to TSG Hoffenheim before drawing 3-3 against 10-man Werder Bremen on Saturday, leading to the 55-year-old Dutchman's abrupt departure on Monday.

Ten Hag, who had been out of management since his sacking by Manchester United in October last year, replaced Xabi Alonso in May on a two-year contract after the Spaniard left to take over at Real Madrid.

"The decision by Bayer Leverkusen's management this morning to put me on a leave of absence came as a complete surprise. To part ways with a coach after just two league matches is unprecedente

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