Analyse: Mainz 05’s four summer rebuilds after late surge
Urs Fischer’s side surged late, but four tactical and personnel gaps must be closed this summer to sustain progress in the Bundesliga title race.
Mainz 05 must address four tactical and personnel priorities this summer after a strong second half under Urs Fischer. Defensive frailties on the left flank exposed Mainz’s vulnerability in transitions, with 12 of their 23 Bundesliga goals conceded after the 60th minute—a pattern that cost them points in tight games. 5 goals per game in losses, with 60% of goals against originating from crosses or cut-backs down the left, where full-back Aymen Barkok struggled to recover.
The issue peaked in the 3-1 loss at Bayern Munich on Matchday 27, where Jamal Musiala exploited Barkok repeatedly, leading to two goals from crosses. The left-back’s defensive positioning often left central midfielders exposed, forcing them to cover ground they couldn’t afford in high-stakes matches. Nadiem Amiri’s future remains the marquee question, with the midfielder’s contract expiring in 2025 and interest from clubs including Bayer Leverkusen and Eintracht Frankfurt.
