Benedict Hollerbach`s move to Mainz introduces an exciting new attacking talent to the Bundesliga. Having scored 14 goals for Union Berlin over his two seasons in the league following his step up from the third division, Hollerbach has perhaps been one of the more quietly impressive forwards. Let`s delve deeper into Mainz`s recent acquisition from the capital club.
Key Information
- Age:
- 24 (born May 17, 2001)
- Club:
- Mainz
- Position:
- Forward
- Country:
- Germany (two youth caps, one goal)
Hollerbach`s footballing journey began in his native Munich, where he spent time in the youth academies of both local rivals 1860 Munich and Bayern Munich. He played for 1860 for four years before switching to Bayern in 2014. He progressed through Bayern`s youth ranks, joining their U17 team where he was teammates with players who would also go on to make names for themselves, such as Angelo Stiller, Joshua Zirkzee, and Malik Tillman.
After five years with Bayern, Hollerbach moved to Stuttgart`s U19 squad. A year later, he joined their reserve team, playing alongside experienced former Bayern centre-back Holger Badstuber during the 2020/21 campaign.
His breakthrough arrived during his spell at Wehen Wiesbaden, where he netted 14 goals in 37 appearances in the 3. Liga, contributing significantly to their promotion via the play-offs in 2023. His impressive form prompted Union Berlin to sign him for the 2023/24 Bundesliga season. The former Germany U18 international has since scored a total of 14 goals in the Bundesliga over two seasons, with nine of those coming in the 2024/25 campaign, ultimately leading to Mainz making their move for him.
A notable moment: Benedict Hollerbach scored against his former club Bayern in the 2024/25 season.
Playing Style Comparison
Benedict Hollerbach shares characteristics with Borussia Dortmund`s forward Karim Adeyemi. Both players are known for their speed, ability to create scoring opportunities, and their goal-scoring prowess. Furthermore, they are not hesitant to contribute defensively, making them challenging opponents across all areas of the pitch.
Interesting Fact
In his final season in the third division with Wiesbaden in 2022/23, Hollerbach`s tally of 14 goals was higher than that of players who subsequently moved to Bundesliga clubs, including Werder Bremen’s Justin Njinmah (who scored 13 while playing for Dortmund`s reserves at the time) and Stuttgart’s Nick Woltemade (who scored nine while at Elversberg).
What They`re Saying
We are really pleased to have secured the services of Benedict Hollerbach. Benedict suits our intense and courageous style of play here in Mainz perfectly. He is one of the most dynamic players and strongest runners in the Bundesliga, capable of operating across the forward line.
– Niko Bungert, Mainz Sporting director
He`s not a know-it-all, but someone who wants to learn. That distinguishes him.
– Steffen Baumgart, Union head coach
