Amiri stays at Mainz 05 – transfer decision confirmed

Amiri stays at 1. FSV Mainz 05

Nadiem Amiri officially confirmed on Saturday evening at the fan festival that he remains with 1. FSV Mainz 05 in 2026. The national team player chose the club despite agent Pini Zahavi presenting several lucrative offers. "I decided with my family to stay here," Amiri said, putting speculation about a departure to rest.

Why the decision matters

Amiri's stay strengthens Mainz 05's squad, especially as the team finishes the 2025‑26 season in tenth place with 40 points (10W‑10D‑14L). With a record of 44 goals scored and 53 conceded, the side sits nine goals in the negative. The recent 2‑0 win over 1. FC Heidenheim on 16 May 2026 shows the team on a two‑game winning run, although form has slipped to WWLL. Amiri's midfield experience gives head coach Christian Heidel more tactical flexibility.

What the sporting director says

Sporting director Christian Heidel told Sky he is "very happy" with the decision. He emphasized that Amiri is a "super guy" and fits perfectly into the squad. Heidel added that, honestly, he had not expected anything else, highlighting the transfer's significance. The club can now start the new season with a stable core, free from further uncertainty around the midfielder.

Outlook for the upcoming season

With Amiri in the lineup, Mainz 05 stays in the chase for higher table positions, even though they trail Bayern Munich by 49 points. Current form (WWLL) and the recent 2‑0 victory over Heidenheim give hope that the team can gather points in the next matches. Fans anticipate Amiri will provide both defensive and offensive impetus to close the goal gap and perhaps deliver a few midfield surprises.

Context and figures

The current Bundesliga table (final 2025) places Mainz 05 tenth with 40 points, while the team has scored 44 goals and conceded 53. The latest match result was a 2‑0 win against Heidenheim on 16 May 2026. Recent form reads WWLL, with the side currently on a two‑game winning streak. These facts paint a clear picture of the situation in which Amiri made his decision.