Tillman doubts Leverkusen future after slamming former coach and fans

Midfielder Malik Tillman warned that his future at Bayer Leverkusen remains uncertain after a candid press conference in which he criticised former manager Kasper Hjulmand and the club’s supporters. The United States international, who arrived from PSV for a club‑record fee, described his debut season as “disappointing” despite making 29 Bundesliga appearances and scoring six goals.

Tillman said the appointment of new head coach Carles Martínez offers a chance to reassess his role. “I came back to learn the coach’s methods, his ideas and his plan for me. After that I’ll know whether I stay or not,” he explained, indicating that his decision will hinge on Martínez’s vision for the midfield.

Addressing the fans, Tillman acknowledged that some criticism was justified but called for a more humane approach. “Freedom of expression must be respected, but a little empathy would mean a lot. Behind every player there is a human being,” he said, adding that hostile reactions have made it harder for him to settle.

The midfielder also dismissed media speculation surrounding his recent Instagram clean‑up, insisting the deletions took place weeks before the story broke. “The media have exaggerated. I simply didn’t want inappropriate comments lingering on my public profile,” he told a local newspaper.

Tillman criticised the club hierarchy for a lack of communication during his first year, especially while the World Cup was being hosted in the United States. “A short message or a phone call would have shown support. I don’t expect daily contact, but a little recognition would have meant a lot,” he added.

He concluded the briefing by inviting anyone with a grievance to discuss it directly after training, rejecting what he called “screen criticism.” “People can act tough behind a phone, but a face‑to‑face conversation is the only way to solve problems,” he asserted.

Leverkusen open the new season on 22 August in the DFB‑Pokalcup against Wehen Wiesbaden, and both the club and Tillman will be under pressure to start positively. The midfielder’s comments suggest that a contract decision could be taken once he has a clearer picture of Martínez’s plans for his position.