Malik Tillman’s move to Bayer Leverkusen has raised eyebrows, with former USMNT striker Herculez Gomez warning of unrealistic expectations and managerial concerns. The 23-year-old faces a major test as he steps into one of Europe’s most high-pressure environments.
Malik Tillman’s blockbuster switch from PSV Eindhoven to Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen has been widely hailed as a step forward for American soccer—but not everyone is convinced it’s the right move at the right time. Former USMNT striker and ESPN pundit Herculez Gomez has raised red flags over the expectations now resting on the 23-year-old midfielder’s shoulders.
Tillman’s Leap from PSV to Leverkusen
After a breakout 2025 Gold Cup and a stellar campaign with Dutch champions PSV, Tillman secured a major move to Bayer Leverkusen earlier this month. The former Rangers loanee notched 12 goals and two assists for PSV in all competitions, playing a crucial role in their Eredivisie title run and catching the eye of top European scouts.
Leverkusen—fresh off their historic 2023/24 Bundesliga title and under new management—swooped in quickly. But Gomez is worried the timing and context of the transfer could prove more difficult than it seems on paper.
Gomez: “People Expect Him to Replace Wirtz—That’s Not Fair”
Speaking on Futbol Americas, Gomez was candid about his reservations.
“It’s a massive move and well-deserved. He had two fantastic seasons at PSV and one at Rangers before that,” said Gomez. “But I’m nervous for him. People are already painting him as the replacement for Florian Wirtz—that’s a lot to put on anyone, especially a player like Malik who isn’t that type of creator.”
Wirtz, who became a generational talent for Leverkusen and helped shape their identity under Xabi Alonso, left behind not just goals and assists but a creative influence that can’t be easily replicated. Tillman, by contrast, is more of a box-to-box midfielder than a pure No.10, which makes the stylistic comparison a tricky one.
New Era, New Risks
Gomez also questioned the new managerial setup at Leverkusen, now helmed by former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag.
“I don’t have the most confidence in Ten Hag to handle this properly,” Gomez added. “Malik’s walking into a dressing room that’s just been through the most successful period in club history—and trying to maintain or repeat that kind of form is incredibly difficult. It’s not going to be an easy transition.”
For Tillman, the expectations aren’t just coming from Leverkusen fans or Bundesliga media. USMNT supporters also see him as a key piece of the national team’s future, especially with the 2026 World Cup on home soil looming.
What’s Next for Tillman?
Following his Gold Cup exploits with the USMNT, Tillman has been granted a short break before joining his new teammates later this month. He’ll likely link up with Leverkusen during their pre-season tour as Ten Hag begins shaping a side that will face domestic and European pressure in equal measure.
Whether Tillman sinks or swims under the spotlight remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the eyes of two nations are watching.
