Hjulmand issues farewell: "Bayer Leverkusen has become a part of me"

With his time at Bayer Leverkusen officially coming to an end after just under a year, Kasper Hjulmand issued a statement to the players, fans and colleagues via LinkedIn:

"Dear everyone at and around Bayer 04 Leverkusen, I joined this fantastic football club at the beginning of September last year. At that time, Bayer 04 Leverkusen was undergoing a period of significant change, both within the team and the coaching staff.

"Together, we mastered the season as well as possible. We experienced many unforgettable moments, celebrated important victories, had to cope with difficult setbacks, and experienced the full spectrum of emotions that football brings. We made significant progress, and each and every one of you contributed to this journey.

"Of course, I am disappointed that I will not have the opportunity to continue building on this progress together with the team. Nevertheless, I respect the decision. I know that I gave my all every single day. From the very first moment, all of you – players, staff, fans, and everyone at the club – made me feel welcome and at home.

"I would especially like to thank our fans for their incredible passion, their loyalty, and their unwavering support. I will never You've forgotten how much you love this club. One moment in particular will stay with me.

"In our Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain, we received an early red card and suffered a heavy defeat. But after the final whistle, you were still there, applauding and supporting the team. For me, that was a true symbol of what it means to be a real fan. I will never forget that moment.

"And there were so many other special moments we experienced together this season. I am truly grateful for all of them. A sincere thank you also goes to my coaching staff and everyone who works around the team. Your professionalism, your dedication, your expertise, and your tireless work were invaluable. It was an honor to work with you.

"And finally, to the players: Thank you. I enjoyed every single day with you – on the training pitch, in the locker room, on match days, and even off the pitch. It was an honor to be your coach. I have learned a great deal from you all and will continue to follow your careers with great interest and admiration.

"Thank you also for all the messages, calls, and kind words I have received in recent days. They mean more to me than you can imagine. For your future, I wish you nothing but success, happiness, and above all, good health. The team is in a strong position, and after a turbulent season, I am convinced that it is ready to tackle the next chapter with confidence and ambition.

"This club has enormous potential, and I have no doubt that many great moments lie ahead. Bayer Leverkusen has become a part of me. I will always look back on my time here with great pride, deep gratitude, and affection.

Thank you for everything.

Kasper Hjulmand".