Mainka remains captain: Heidenheim is relying on continuity in the Bundesliga

Mainka remains captain: Heidenheim is relying on continuity in the Bundesliga

1. FC Heidenheim has sent a clear signal in preparation for the new Bundesliga season: Patrick Mainka will remain the club's captain in the 2025/26 season. The decision was made public at the training camp in Natz-Schabs, South Tyrol, on Monday. Head coach Frank Schmidt emphasizes that the choice was made quickly because Mainka embodies the role of captain perfectly and is an important contact for the entire team. kicker reports on the background to this decision.

Patrick Mainka, who has been playing for Heidenheim since 2018 and can now look back on an impressive 257 competitive games and 19 goals, sees the position of captain as a “special honor”. The 30-year-old has been captain for five years now and has established himself as the backbone of the defense. Last season he played the full 90 minutes in all 34 league games without missing a single minute. This not only shows his reliability, but also his tireless commitment to the team. Loud Sports show He played 6,120 minutes in 68 league games in the last two years.

A look back at the past season

Last season was a real challenge for Heidenheim, which ended with a dramatic relegation relegation. Mainka and his team worked hard to avoid relegation. Now the captain is full of energy and looking forward to the coming season. Coach Schmidt not only praises his athletic ability, but also highlights his communication skills and the responsibility he takes on both on and off the field.

The composition of the team council and Mainka's deputies have not yet been announced. The topic of responsibilities within the team remains exciting. Heidenheim is going into the new season with big goals and wants to prove once again that they have established themselves in the upper echelon of German football.

The league at a glance

There are many interesting captains in the Bundesliga, but Mainka stands out not only because of his experience. The list of captains of the 18 Bundesliga teams shows that special personalities often take the lead at the top clubs. Sports picture has created an overview of the current captains. It shows that only two captains were elected by their teams and the roles in most teams have been assigned for many years.

The fans of 1. FC Heidenheim can only hope that Patrick Mainka can continue to shine in his role and that the team has many positive surprises in store in the coming season. The anticipation for the 2025/26 Bundesliga season can already be felt.