Mainz 05 secure Martel as Fischer consolidates squad
Eric Martel joins from Cologne on a free transfer, signing a three-year deal until 2029 as head coach Urs Fischer looks to build on a tenth-place finish.
Mainz 05 have officially confirmed the signing of midfielder Eric Martel from Cologne, securing the 24-year-old on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract with the Billy Goats. The player has committed his future to the German Bundesliga club by penning a three-year deal that runs until 2029.
Martel arrives with a proven track record in the top flight, having featured in all but three matches during the 2025/26 Bundesliga season for Cologne. His availability was limited only by suspension, and he played a significant role in helping Cologne secure their league status during the campaign.
The acquisition represents a strategic move for Mainz 05, who have stabilised their position under head coach Urs Fischer. Fischer, formerly of Union Berlin, was appointed in December when the club was rooted to the foot of the table, tasked with navigating a difficult period of instability.
Under Fischer’s guidance, the Carnival club staged a remarkable recovery, finishing the 2025/26 season in 10th place. The turnaround was highlighted by a strong finish to the league campaign, where the team suffered only two defeats in their final 11 games.
While the domestic performance improved significantly, the club’s European ambitions were curtailed earlier in the season. Mainz were eliminated from the UEFA Conference League by French outfit Strasbourg, losing 4-2 on aggregate, leaving the domestic league as the primary focus for the upcoming term.
