Ibrahim Maza reveals preferred position and targets Champions League glory

Ibrahim Maza has revealed that the number 10 role is his preferred position at Bayer Leverkusen, while outlining his ambitions to win the Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria and lift the Champions League at club level.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder discussed his development, tactical versatility and international commitments in an exclusive interview with the official Bundesliga website.

Maza has emerged as one of the promising young talents in Algerian football and continues to establish himself at Leverkusen. His ability to operate in several midfield and attacking positions has given him flexibility, but he believes the number 10 role allows him to feel most comfortable on the pitch.

“I think the position where I feel most comfortable is as a number 10, in the 4-2-3-1 formation we currently use. I can also play as a number 8 or a number 6, as well as on the left, where I’ve already played several times, or on the right, more like a winger who cuts inside. I feel good anywhere. I just want to play my game, no matter where I play.”

His willingness to play in different positions has become an important part of his game at Leverkusen. The youngster is comfortable operating centrally or from either flank, giving his team different options in attack.

However, Maza’s ambitions extend beyond his club career, with the midfielder placing particular importance on representing Algeria at international level.

The youngster explained that his connection to the country, through his father, made the opportunity to represent the national team especially meaningful. He also made clear that winning the Africa Cup of Nations remains one of his biggest objectives.

“It means a lot to me to be able to play for my roots, for my blood, if I can say so, through my father. It’s a great honor to represent this country. We have a big goal. I absolutely want to win the Africa Cup of Nations with them. Of course, I also want us to qualify for the next World Cups and go as far as possible.”

Maza has already made an impact for Algeria, including a decisive contribution against Zambia during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

His comments underline his determination to help the national team compete for major honours, with qualification for future World Cups also among his priorities.

Maza dreams of Champions League success

While continental success with Algeria is a major target, the Leverkusen midfielder also has his sights set on winning Europe’s biggest club competition.

Maza admitted that lifting the Champions League trophy would be a dream come true, particularly as he shares a dressing room with Lucas Vázquez, who has won the competition five times.

“Winning the Champions League. Yes, definitely. It’s a dream goal. I play with Lucas Vázquez, who has won it five times. We’ve already bombarded him with questions about it. Winning it would be incredible.”

Maza’s ambitions come as he continues to make progress at Leverkusen. Following an impressive performance against Freiburg in front of Jürgen Klopp, now the German national team coach, the midfielder also reiterated his commitment to Algeria.

“I hope he appreciates me as a player. But obviously, I’m now an Algerian international and I’m proud of it.”

For Maza, establishing himself at Leverkusen and achieving success with Algeria remain closely connected ambitions. The midfielder is determined to make the most of his versatility at club level while helping his country pursue major international honours.