Malik Tillman Opens Up on Balogun Red Card Controversy, Hjulmand Exit and New Life Under Carles Martínez

After an encouraging FIFA World Cup campaign with the United States, Malik Tillman has returned to Bayer Leverkusen determined to turn the page on what he openly describes as a disappointing first season in Germany. Speaking to KSTA during Bayer's pre-season training camp, the 24-year-old reflected on his difficult relationship with former head coach Kasper Hjulmand, criticised aspects of the support he received from the club and its supporters, and admitted his future at the BayArena remains undecided despite being under contract until 2030.

Tillman arrived at Leverkusen with high expectations but never managed to establish himself as a consistent starter during a frustrating campaign. While he accepted responsibility for some of his performances, he revealed that his relationship with Hjulmand made it difficult to truly enjoy his football.

"It's fair to say now that things weren't quite right between the coach and me. Now a new season begins with a new coach—a fresh start."

The arrival of Carles Martínez has given the American international renewed optimism. Tillman explained that he is approaching pre-season with a completely different mindset after returning from a successful World Cup, where he played a prominent role for the United States.

Rather than focusing solely on results, he believes the tournament represented an important step forward for football in his country, saying the squad wanted to inspire a new generation of American players while proving they could compete on the biggest stage.

One of the biggest talking points during the tournament was the controversial disciplinary case involving teammate Folarin Balogun, but Tillman offered a straightforward assessment of the situation.

"A red card is a red card and should stand. You shouldn't get involved afterwards and try to change the decision."

Much of the interview centred on his first year at Bayer Leverkusen, during which the midfielder admitted that criticism of his performances was sometimes justified. However, he also suggested parts of the club's fanbase failed to remember there is a person behind every footballer.

"Behind every player is a human being. Fans should support the players through thick and thin."

Tillman also addressed the speculation surrounding his social media activity after deleting Leverkusen-related posts from his Instagram account, something many interpreted as a sign he wanted to leave the club.

The midfielder insisted that narrative was inaccurate, explaining that the posts had been removed weeks before the story emerged publicly. According to Tillman, the decision had little to do with Leverkusen itself and far more to do with the volume of abusive comments left beneath those posts.

He argued that while criticism is part of professional football, anonymous abuse on social media is something he no longer wants to give a platform on his personal profile.

Another issue that clearly disappointed the American was the level of communication from Bayer's hierarchy during the World Cup. Without directly accusing anyone, Tillman admitted he expected more support from club officials while representing his country on football's biggest stage.

"I would have appreciated a bit more support during the World Cup. Nobody needs to call every day, but a few more messages now and then would have been nice."

Perhaps the strongest statement came when he was asked whether he would still be a Bayer player had there not been a managerial change this summer.

His answer was brief but revealing.

"I do not think so."

Although the coaching change has transformed his outlook, Tillman stopped well short of guaranteeing he will remain in Leverkusen beyond this transfer window.

Instead, he explained that he first wants to understand Martínez's ideas, evaluate the coach's plans for him and see how his role develops over the coming weeks before making any long-term decision.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Tillman remains confident that Bayer supporters have yet to see the best version of him.

"I want to prove what I'm really capable of in Leverkusen. I haven't managed to do that so far. I think many fans still underestimate me."

He also revealed that his preferred position has evolved. While he previously believed he was most effective further forward, his performances for the United States convinced him that playing as a number eight allows him to influence matches at both ends of the pitch.

With Alejandro Grimaldo having left the club, Tillman even joked that he now sees himself as a candidate to take over free-kick duties, although he admitted he may have to compete with Aleix García for that responsibility.

The midfielder finished on a far more positive note by praising the atmosphere created by Carles Martínez since pre-season began. According to Tillman, the squad already feels more united than it did last season, with the new head coach demanding greater passion, stronger attention to detail and higher standards both on and off the pitch.

After a challenging debut year, Tillman believes he has been given a genuine opportunity to rebuild his reputation. Whether that revival ultimately takes place at Bayer Leverkusen may still depend on the conversations and performances that follow during the weeks ahead.