Jan Siewert named permanent head coach at Mainz
Mainz have appointed Jan Siewert on a permanent basis, following seven games as interim coach.
Siewert took over in a caretaker role on 3 November, after Bo Svensson left the club by mutual consent. Mainz were winless in 14 league matches and three points adrift of safety at the time, but have since climbed into the relegation play-off spot on goal difference, after taking seven points from a possible 21, including a much-needed 2-0 win over RB Leipzig. The 41-year-old has signed a contract until summer 2026.
"We've taken the necessary time to analyse the sporting situation in great detail," said Mainz sporting director Christian Heidel. "We're convinced Jan Siewert will keep us in the Bundesliga. He's given the team fresh impetus, he has the backing of the team and staff, knows the club and is passionate about the task at hand."
"I'm very happy about the trust the club has placed in me," added Siewert. "We've always been open with each other. It's a joint task for our club, and I'm sure we'll succeed with the quality of the team, our team spirit and fans."
The Mainz job is Siewert's second as a full-time coach, after a spell in charge of English outfit Huddersfield Town in the first half of 2019. He has also worked as Mainz caretaker coach once before, as well as with the club's academy, the Borussia Dortmund reserves and Bochum U19s.
Mainz host Wolfsburg in their first game back from the winter break on 13 January 2024, with three points to make up on outright safety.
Want more Bundesliga Action?
Related news
Bundesliga Matchday 18 probable teams
Hugo Ekitiké is in position to lead the line for Eintracht Frankfurt as they attempt to find a way past Borussia Dortmund.
Why are Leverkusen back in form?
With Xabi Alonso's men racing into title contention with seven wins on the bounce, we assess what's going right at the BayArena.
Who is John Tolkin?
All you need to know on the fully capped USMNT left-back, who has joined Kiel from New York Red Bulls...