Mainz appoint former Union Berlin boss Urs Fischer as head coach

Having once inspired Union Berlin to the UEFA Champions League, the 59-year-old Swiss coach will now seek to steer Mainz clear of relegation danger.

Having learned the coaching trade in his native Switzerland - where he was in charge of Zurich, Thun and Basel - Fischer joined Union Berlin in the summer of 2018 and led them into the top flight the following season before leading them into a historic UEFA Champions League participation in 2023/24.

He left Union in November 2023 but now returns to the Bundesliga with Mainz rooted at the bottom of the Bundesliga after 13 matches of the season. 

Watch: Union Berlin celebrate historic UEFA Champions League qualification in 2023

Mainz board member for sport Christian Heidel said: “Urs Fischer has proven at every stage of his coaching career that he can organise and develop teams, while also winning over dressing rooms with his calm yet empathetic approach. His achievements and attributes have made him one of the most sought-after coaches around. We’re therefore delighted that he was immediately interested in the opportunity to join Mainz.”

Fischer said: "With the club’s values off the pitch, the determination to never give up and constantly press the opposition, and the passion of the fans at the Mewa Arena – I’m really looking forward to this challenge and I’m convinced that we’ll be able to turn things around together as a team.”

Fischer's first match in charge of the 05ers will be away at Lech Poznan in the UEFA Conference League on Thursday.

About the clubs

1. FSV Mainz 05

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