As the Bundesliga season reaches its dramatic conclusion, Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand has made his intentions clear: he wants to stay at the club regardless of whether they secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.

The stakes couldn't be higher for Leverkusen heading into Saturday's final matchday. Currently sitting in sixth place, the Werkself need a victory against Hamburg SV at home, combined with losses from both VfB Stuttgart (away to Eintracht Frankfurt) and Hoffenheim (at Borussia Mönchengladbach), to snatch the Bundesliga's fourth and final Champions League spot.

Despite media speculation that Hjulmand's job could be on the line if they fall short, the 54-year-old Dane remains committed to the project. "I have a contract. I am very, very happy here. There are always ways to do something better. The future looks very good for the team," he stated during Friday's press conference, referencing his deal that runs until June 2027.

It's worth noting that Hjulmand hasn't even completed a full season in charge, having taken over after Erik ten Hag's early-season dismissal. Drawing on club history for perspective, he recalled Xabi Alonso's first campaign in 2022-2023, when Leverkusen finished sixth with just 50 points—eight fewer than their current tally. That disappointing finish was quickly followed by an historic title win the next season, as the Werkshop became German champions for the first time after going the entire league campaign unbeaten.

"The headline is that it's not over. It's not over yet. We definitely want to win this match and are looking with hope at the other two stadiums," Hjulmand added, while confirming that winger Nathan Tella will miss the crucial fixture.

For Leverkusen fans, it's a reminder that even if Champions League football slips away, the foundation for success may already be in place—and their coach is ready to build on it.