Carles Martínez to join Bayer Leverkusen, Girona lose candidate

Carles Martínez has agreed in principle to become head coach of Bayer Leverkusen. Girona FC lost the candidate they preferred for the vacant job. García Pimienta is now being considered by Girona.

The agreement with Leverkusen was reached after the Bundesliga club poached Martínez from the candidate pool linked to Girona's Montilivi stadium. Martínez previously coached Toulouse in France. The German side will finalize the contract in the coming days.

Girona’s sporting director said the search for a new manager will restart. García Pimienta, who previously worked with Barcelona’s youth set‑up, entered the shortlist. The club hopes the Spaniard can fill the vacancy.

The coaching change comes as Girona seeks to rebuild after the departure of their former boss. Leverkusen, meanwhile, aims to strengthen the bench ahead of the new season. Both clubs face immediate challenges in the upcoming campaign.

Martínez is expected to sign officially before the preseason starts. Girona will interview García Pimienta in the next week. The developments set the stage for two distinct managerial projects in Germany and Spain.