Ibrahim Maza has completed a high-profile switch to Bayer Leverkusen from Hertha Berlin, with the promising Algerian midfielder already drawing admiration from senior players within the squad ahead of what is expected to be a defining season in his career.
The 18-year-old, who caught the eye during a standout campaign in Germany’s second division, now steps onto the Bundesliga stage with the reigning German champions.
Despite the pressure that accompanies such a move, Maza appears to be winning over the dressing room from the outset, notably receiving strong endorsement from veteran teammate Jonas Hofmann.
Speaking to Kicker, the 32-year-old German international highlighted Maza’s potential and technical ability. “When I see Ibo in training, I believe he just needs a bit of time, and he can develop into a great player. It’s already quite clear from the way he plays,” Hofmann said.
The midfielder, who has earned 23 caps for Germany, appeared visibly impressed by the Algerian youngster’s composure and creativity on the ball.
Maza, who has chosen to represent Algeria at international level despite being born and trained in Berlin, will wear the number 30 shirt for Leverkusen.
His arrival comes at a critical time for the club, which has undergone significant changes this summer. With Florian Wirtz having departed for Liverpool and other key figures moving on, the team is undergoing a transitional phase under the leadership of Erik ten Hag.
In the wake of Wirtz’s exit, Hofmann sees Maza as part of a new wave of players ready to fill the void rather than the club pursuing marquee signings.
“Young players now have the opportunity. We don’t necessarily need to sign big names—the existing squad and the new arrivals are capable of stepping up,” he stated.
There is growing belief within the club that Maza could emerge as a long-term successor to Wirtz, whose departure left a notable gap in the squad.
that comparison places considerable expectations on the young midfielder’s shoulders, early signs from training sessions suggest he may be equipped for the challenge.
Beyond his individual talent, Maza is also stepping into a multicultural and supportive environment. Bayer Leverkusen boasts a diverse squad that includes several African players who may play a role in helping the youngster settle quickly.
Among them are Moroccan winger Amine Adli, who is currently linked with a move away from the club, Burkinabè defender Edmond Tapsoba, and newly signed Senegalese talent Abdoulaye Faye from Swedish side Häcken.
With Ten Hag’s tactical acumen and a squad blending youth with experience, Leverkusen is aiming to build on last season’s achievements while laying the groundwork for sustained success. For Maza, the stage is set to begin his Bundesliga journey at a club that has already shown confidence in his potential.
Though still in the early stages of his integration, the signs are promising. Backed by a manager known for developing young players and supported by experienced teammates like Hofmann, the Algerian international finds himself in an ideal environment to grow into the player many already believe he can become.
