Lennard Maloney joins Mainz 05

1. FSV Mainz 05 have signed defensive midfielder Lennard Maloney to a contract running until 2028. The 25-year-old joins from fellow Bundesliga side 1. FC Heidenheim and possesses both Germany and U.S. citizenship. Maloney was born in Berlin and came up through the ranks of the 1. FC Union Berlin academy. He made his Bundesliga debut during the 2021/22 season while on loan at Borussia Dortmund. Maloney then joined Heidenheim at the start of the 2022/23 campaign, featuring in a total of 85 competitive games for the side (2 goals, 2 assists) across the Bundesliga, Bundesliga 2, DFB-Pokal and UEFA Conference League.

Maloney has represented the USA since 2018, having earned two caps with the senior men’s national team to date. He had previously featured for the Germany U18s and U19s under then-head coach Meikel Schönweitz (current technical director of FSV). Both clubs have agreed to keep the details of the contract undisclosed.

“Perfect fit for Mainz 05"

“Lennard Maloney has been able to prove himself in the Bundesliga over the last year and a half,” said FSV sporting director Niko Bungert. “His preferred position is as a number six and as a player, he’s the perfect fit for Mainz 05. He brings a strong mentality, as well as a willingness to run hard, to the table and is also strong at winning challenges and aerial duels. Lennard will find it easy to fit into our squad with his warm, open personality.” 

“Mainz 05 are a great fit for me, from the style of play to their overall set-up,” said Maloney. “Sometimes, all it takes is one meeting with the sporting management and the head coach to know that you will get on well with each other. That was definitely the case here — I had a good feeling right from the start. Now, I’m looking forward to getting to know my new teammates, the fans and the city. I’m also excited to get to experience the MEWA ARENA, a place where Mainz are tough to beat, as a 05er.”