The 33-year-old, who saw limited action last term, has ruled out a summer departure and is eager to seize the opportunity presented by the coaching change.
Hofmann endured a frustrating 2024/25 campaign under former manager Xabi Alonso, logging just 651 minutes compared to nearly 2,800 minutes and 20 goal contributions in the club's historic unbeaten Bundesliga title-winning season of 2023/24.
Reflecting on his struggles, Hofmann revealed a lack of communication with Alonso, which strained their relationship. "If something isn't right, you should go to the coach," Hofmann told Kicker. "I did that with Xabi, but there was a period when we didn't speak for weeks. I took the first step to ask what was going on, and things got a little better."
The arrival of Ten Hag, who replaced Alonso after the Spaniard's move to Real Madrid in May 2025, has sparked renewed optimism for Hofmann.
The Dutch coach, known for his meticulous approach, has already made a positive impression. "Erik is very clear in his statements and has sought conversations," Hofmann said. "That's crucial for a new coach, you need to connect with players on and off the pitch."
Hofmann's commitment to Leverkusen, where he has a contract until 2027, remains unwavering. "That's correct, yes," he confirmed when asked about staying with the club.
"I'm a product of the Bundesliga. I'll fight my way back." Recent posts on X echo this sentiment, with Hofmann expressing enthusiasm for Ten Hag's tactical flexibility, noting the coach's willingness to adapt formations, such as experimenting with a back three instead of his usual back four.
"I found it positive," Hofmann said. "It's good when a coach doesn't just stick to one approach."
As Leverkusen prepare for their DFB-Pokal opener against SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach on August 15, Hofmann is determined to prove his worth. His resolve was evident in his preparation, having worked with a private coach to boost his fitness. "I've worked hard to show Erik I'm ready," he told Bild. "Even at 33, I'm in top shape."
However, Hofmann's future isn't entirely certain. Posts on X suggest that if his situation doesn't improve under Ten Hag, a transfer could still be on the table, with FC Augsburg previously linked.
For now, the midfielder is focused on reclaiming his place in a Leverkusen side aiming to build on their second-place Bundesliga finish last season. With Ten Hag's hands-on approach and Hofmann's renewed hunger, the stage is set for a potential comeback story at the BayArena.
Liverpool are set to make waves in the transfer market, with reports indicating they are open to selling star winger Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich to fund a record-breaking move for Newcastle United's Alexander Isak.
Bayern Munich are reportedly pushing hard to secure the signature of VfB Stuttgart's rising star Nick Woltemade, with negotiations set to intensify during Stuttgart's upcoming training camp.
Bayer Leverkusen's Granit Xhaka appears set to remain with the Bundesliga giants as transfer negotiations with Sunderland have hit a wall, according to German outlet Bild.
VfB Stuttgart's talented midfielder Enzo Millot could be on the move this summer, with Atletico Madrid emerging as frontrunners to secure his signature.
