Eintracht Frankfurt has notably strengthened its forward line by acquiring Jonathan Burkardt from Mainz. With the Eagles set for another UEFA Champions League season, the 24-year-old striker, recognized as a promising German talent, is expected to bring considerable value to Dino Toppmöller`s squad.
Last season, Mainz achieved their second-highest ever Bundesliga finish, securing sixth place and a return to European competition after an eight-year absence (qualifying for the UEFA Conference League). Despite the celebration, there might have been some regret that they didn`t reach the UEFA Champions League, particularly as they were in the top four until Matchday 29.
If captain Burkardt hadn`t missed five games (three of which Mainz lost), Bo Henriksen`s side might have qualified for the top European competition this season. Nevertheless, Burkardt`s 18 goals in the 29 Bundesliga matches he played were vital for Mainz. Losing their leading Bundesliga goalscorer is clearly a significant acquisition for Frankfurt ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Eintracht`s 2024/25 campaign largely revolved around two forwards. Omar Marmoush and Hugo Ekitiké combined for 30 Bundesliga goals, contributing nearly half of Frankfurt`s total of 68. Marmoush`s move to Manchester City in January prevented this duo from potentially exceeding 50% of the team`s goals.
However, neither of these two players was statistically as crucial to their team as Burkardt was for Mainz. As captain, he netted a league-high 33% of Mainz`s Bundesliga goals. Furthermore, 10 of his strikes either put his team ahead or equalized, highlighting his knack for being decisive in key situations.
Following Marmoush`s mid-season exit, Ekitiké became Frankfurt`s primary attacking force. His future at the club remains uncertain, as stated by sporting director Markus Krösche in May, who mentioned the Frenchman “has to decide” his next step. Consequently, Burkardt could serve as a replacement, although he offers a distinct playing style.
Ekitiké wasn`t just a threat in front of goal; he was also vital to Eintracht`s attacking build-up. He registered eight assists and created 43 chances over the season, a significant difference compared to Burkardt`s two assists and 22 chances for Mainz, despite playing four fewer games.
Burkardt generally operates within or near the penalty box, whereas Ekitiké often drifts wide to offer support and create chances independently. Notably, Burkardt had the fewest touches per 90 minutes among his Mainz teammates last season, averaging just 34.
However, Burkardt possesses attributes that could give Frankfurt an added advantage, particularly if Ekitiké stays. The former Mainz player was clinical, needing only 79 shots to score his 18 Bundesliga goals. In comparison, Ekitiké took 111 shots to score 15.
Burkardt`s efficiency wasn`t limited to outperforming his new teammate. Among the top 10 goalscorers in the Bundesliga for 2024/25, only Patrik Schick had a better shots-per-goal ratio (three) than Burkardt (four).
Furthermore, Frankfurt`s new forward poses a surprisingly strong aerial threat. Despite being only 5`9″ (175 cm), 20% (eight) of his total 41 Bundesliga goals have been headed, including three last season.
His leadership qualities could prove essential for one of the Bundesliga`s youngest teams. Receiving the captain`s armband from Henriksen at Mainz a year ago seemed to further motivate the striker, with his presence and vocal encouragement helping Mainz achieve more than might have been expected.
Henriksen`s comments about Burkardt last September, after a performance that secured a win against Augsburg, effectively illustrate the type of player and individual Frankfurt has signed.
The Danish coach remarked, “This time, he was incredibly important because he also put in significant defensive effort. What a man, what a player, I`m proud. He is also a leader for us, a player we can always rely on. He is willing to do anything for this club.”
Burkardt finished the 2024/25 season as the top-scoring German player at club level. His record of 10 goals in 20 appearances for the Germany U21 team also suggests he will be a valuable addition for senior national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, who has already given the forward three senior caps.
Now with Frankfurt, Burkardt has the opportunity to compete against Europe`s top teams. Stepping up his performance level in this environment would likely solidify his place as a regular for the German national side.
In recent seasons, Eintracht has demonstrated a knack for developing forwards, with Ekitiké and Marmoush being the latest examples after players like Sébastien Haller and André Silva. If “Eagles” coach Toppmöller can similarly maximize Burkardt`s potential, Frankfurt is likely to achieve further success in the upcoming season.
