Malik Tillman Admits to 'Worst Season' and Remains Open to Leverkusen Departure

United States international Malik Tillman has candidly admitted that his debut campaign at Bayer Leverkusen was the worst of his professional career, leaving the door open for a summer exit from the Bundesliga side.

The 24-year-old arrived at Leverkusen ahead of the 2025-26 season in a move from PSV reported to be worth €35m. However, the transition proved difficult under former manager Kasper Hjulmand. Tillman managed just eight goals in 42 appearances across all competitions and failed to record a single assist during a disappointing campaign that saw the club finish sixth and miss out on Champions League qualification.

Speaking to Sport Bild, Tillman reflected on his struggles, stating: "What I’ve shown so far hasn’t been what I’m capable of. Last season was the worst I’ve played in my career."

While the American attacker acknowledged that a lack of trust from the coaching staff played a role, he took personal responsibility for his lack of impact. "Maybe I never really settled in. Maybe it was down to the coach. But those are the usual excuses. In the end, it was down to me. I didn’t perform to the level I should have," he added.

With Carles Martinez now at the helm, Tillman is giving the new manager a chance to integrate him into the plans, though he admits a transfer remains a possibility before the window closes. "That's still a topic. I’m here because I want to get to know the coach and his plans," Tillman explained. "I’m observing everything, and the coach will be doing the same. Then we’ll see what happens."

Tillman has already made two pre-season appearances, featuring as a substitute against Sevilla and starting in a match against Nottingham Forest. Leverkusen are set to begin their competitive season in the DFB-Pokal against Wehen on August 22, followed by their Bundesliga opener against Elversberg a week later.