BERLIN – Bayer Leverkusen has made a significant move by acquiring promising young talent Ibrahim Maza from Hertha Berlin, a second-tier club, marking its initial signing for the upcoming season.
Maza, aged 19 and known for his prowess as an attacking midfielder, has committed to a contract that extends until June 2030, according to the 2024 Bundesliga champions.
Reports suggest a transfer deal has been finalized at around 12 million euros ($13.6 million).
Leverkusen seems set for a transformative summer, anticipating departures of key players like Jonathan Tan and uncertainty around the future of star player Florian Wirtz. Additionally, coach Xabi Alonso is speculated to be departing as talks grow regarding a potential move to his former club, Real Madrid.
Rumors also float about possible successors for Alonso, with names like former Barcelona coach Xavi and Erik ten Hag, the ex-Manchester United manager, emerging in discussions. Alonso led an unbeaten run for Leverkusen, achieving a notable league and cup double last season.
Maza, a Berlin native, rose to prominence at Hertha, joining their youth ranks from Reinickendorfer Füchse in 2016. His performance made him Hertha’s standout youth talent. After Hertha’s relegation from the Bundesliga in 2023, where Maza scored in their last top-flight match, he subsequently became an essential figure in their second-division campaign. This season, the 1.8-meter right-footed player contributed five goals and five assists, showcasing his attacking capabilities.
Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, expressed enthusiasm about Maza’s arrival, highlighting his technical skills, dribbling abilities, and vision for connecting with teammates. Rolfes noted, “Maza represents one of the most intriguing young talents in the attacking domain…. His style aligns with our footballing philosophy.”
Initially part of Germany’s youth teams from Under-18 to Under-20 levels, Maza opted to represent Algeria on the international stage. He had previously declined offers to exit Hertha, extending his association with them until 2027, yet financial constraints at Hertha made his eventual departure inevitable.
Reflecting on his journey, Maza stated, “As a Berliner, achieving professional status with Hertha BSC and donning the Hertha emblem at Olympiastadion was a dream. I am appreciative of the club for providing me this opportunity to escalate my career in Leverkusen.”
Hertha has pledged to honor Maza with a proper farewell before his departure. The second division still has three rounds remaining, with Hertha set to play two home matches.