Bayer Leverkusen announced on June 4 that 42-year-old Carles Martinez Novell will become their new head coach, replacing Kasper Hjulmand after one season in charge [1, 2]. Novell signed a two-year deal that runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, and will officially take over at the start of next month [1, 2].
Novell was previously the head coach of the French Ligue 1 club Toulouse for three years. During his tenure there, he led the team to three successive mid-table finishes, showcasing steady performance in a competitive league [1, 2].
Leverkusen finished sixth in the Bundesliga last season, narrowly missing out on top-tier European qualification [1, 2]. The club hopes Novell's appointment will bring renewed success and stability to the team after Hjulmand's departure [1, 2].
"Bayer 04 Leverkusen has appointed Carles Martinez Novell as their new head coach," the club said in an official statement. "He will take over ... on July 1, 2026, and signed a contract valid until June 30, 2028," the statement added [1].
Novell’s arrival marks a new chapter for Bayer Leverkusen as they prepare for the upcoming 2026-27 season under fresh leadership [1, 2].