- FSV Mainz wants to play Wehen Wiesbaden in the next round
Probably without Bryan Gruda, Mainz 05 will go into the Pokal game derby against SV Wehen Wiesbaden. The midfielder is on the verge of a transfer to English club Brighton & Hove Albion. However, this should not prevent advancement in the first round against the third division football club.
" We have many players who can play this position. We have good solutions. You will see it against Wiesbaden," said 05 coach Bo Henriksen before the game on Friday (6:00 PM/Sky) in Wiesbaden. Armindo Sieb seems to be favored for Gruda's position in the offense. The new signing received much praise from Henriksen.
Compared to the dress rehearsal last weekend against Montpellier, Henriksen wants to make only a few changes in the starting lineup. "We will see many of the players in Wiesbaden too," confirmed the Dane.
Also, Onisiwo is fit again
He can also draw from the full range personnel. The previously injured Karim Onisiwo is fit again and eager to play. "He seemed like a new player. I think he will have a great season," said Henriksen. Only Silvan Widmer will be missing. The Swiss national player was recently ill and is not yet fully fit.
Before the season opener against the underdog from the other side of the Rhine, he warned his players against complacency. "For us, it is an incredibly important game. For Wehen Wiesbaden, it is a big game. They will give their all. If we are not ready, we will lose. We must understand that," said Henriksen.
For the Mainz team, the Pokal competition is the fastest way to get into international business. Therefore, Henriksen wants to do everything to avoid an early exit. "This is an important competition for us. There are only a few games to the final, but there are surprises every year. The second and third leagues in Germany are good, they have quality and emotions," warned the coach.
The following is added to the team's preparations: Armindo Sieb is expected to fill Bryan Gruda's role in the offense, as the midfielder is on the brink of joining Brighton & Hove Albion.
Despite potential changes due to transfers, Mainz 05 coach Bo Henriksen emphasizes the importance of avoiding complacency in the Pokal game against SV Wehen Wiesbaden, as it serves as a quick route to international business for the club.
