Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand credits the club’s strong team spirit for their recent resurgence. “Football is a team sport, leadership is a team sport, life is a team sport. To grow as a person, you need a good environment, a family-like atmosphere,” the Danish coach told the Christmas edition of the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger. “The better the environment you’re in, the better the chances for personal development.”

Since taking over at the Rhine club, Hjulmand has focused on fostering a sense of togetherness. “We try to create an atmosphere that provides everyone a foundation for growth,” he explained. “We offer a framework with a clear football philosophy so everyone understands their role in making the team succeed. When that works, each individual also looks better.”

Hjulmand emphasizes that his approach is aligned with the club’s management. “They know me, my values, how I think about football, how I lead people, and how I develop teams,” said the 53-year-old. “I’m too old to try to convince people in football; it’s not worth it. Honestly, I don’t need this job—I could do other things with my life.”

Yet he was drawn to Bayer Leverkusen because of their ambition and team ethos. “It’s an interesting club that wants to achieve great things with fantastic team spirit,” Hjulmand said. “Bayer 04 is dreaming big. I like that. The club makes you feel that we’re all in this together.”

Since taking over after the second matchday, Hjulmand has guided Leverkusen to third place heading into the winter break, reflecting the impact of his leadership and the collective spirit he has instilled.