“Great to see everyone again”

It’s around six weeks since FSV sensationally secured their Bundesliga safety under head coach Bo Henriksen in Wolfsburg on the final day. Everyone has had a month and a half off to recover, process what happened and recharge their batteries ahead of the new season, one that is eagerly awaited. The Mainz coach spoke to us after a relaxed opening session of pre-season, discussing the new campaign, new targets and transfers.

BO ON

…returning after six weeks

“Everyone is fully fit. It’s great to see all the lads and staff again after the great way we finished last season. We’ve got a good energy within the group with young lads from the U23s, who will remain with us for the first few weeks.”

…the departure of Niko Bungert, who will take on a different role within the club

“Niko Bungert was really important for all of us. We tried all we could, but he made a decision and we respect that. We’ll look at whether we need to bring in another assistant in the coming weeks.”

...transfer activities so far

“We obviously needed a replacement for Leo and we‘ve signed a really good player. Kaishu will arrive properly in two and a half weeks, he’s flown back to Japan for now. We obviously hope too that Sepp returns. Paul Nebel and Armindo Sieb are already here. They are also different types of players for the half spaces and it’s important to have that option. Paul is a Mainzer and can’t wait to get going here after two years in the second division. He can still develop and take the next step now.

Armindo can get into the half spaces, is technically gifted and can score goals. The most important thing for me is that he’s brave when he’s got the ball, but he can also play with his back to goal.”

“LAST SEASON SHOWED THAT WE CAN BEAT ANYONE WITH THE SUPPORT OF OUR FANS”

...the future of Brajan Gruda

“Brajan’s call-up to the national team was fantastic for him and for us. He’s a fantastic footballer and will return here in 10 days. I hope that he’s still playing for us next year.”

...targets for the season

“We want to try and win every game again this season. That might sound boring because I’ve said it so often, but I’ve got a good feeling about things. We’ve got a good team and there is a positive mood around the place. In order to be successful, we have to make sure that we never stop working hard. Anything less than 100% will never be enough at Mainz 05. Everybody here at the club has to give their all. Last season showed that we can beat anyone with the support of our fans.”

...the first training sessions

“We’ll work for around an hour again tomorrow and then step things up on Friday. We need to start slowly after the fitness and performance tests. Our first friendly is on Saturday and every player will get 45 minutes.”