A Dutch coach who was reportedly on the brink of joining Cape Town City a few months ago has now been handed the reins at a top European club.
Former Ajax Cape Town manager Andries Ulderink has been placed in charge of Bayer Leverkusen.
The decision follows the shock sacking of head coach Erik ten Hag on Monday, just three games into his tenure.
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In the statement announcing Ten Hag's departure, Leverkusen confirmed that the existing technical staff would oversee matters until further notice.
This means Ulderink will be responsible for the first team, having served as Ten Hag’s assistant coach.
"Bayer 04 Leverkusen have parted ways with head coach Erik ten Hag," read a statement on Leverkusen's official website.
"This was decided by the shareholders' committee, the club’s supervisory body, on the recommendation of the management of Bayer 04.
"Training will be overseen by the current backroom staff on an interim basis."
Notably, Ulderink was close to joining Cape Town City a few months ago and was even spotted at the club's training ground.
However, when the opportunity to work with Ten Hag at Leverkusen arose, Ulderink seemingly opted to pass on the Cape Town City job.
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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