SpVgg Greuther Fürth have completed the signing of 20-year-old defender Maxim Dal from FSV Mainz 05 on a three-year contract. The left-footer joins Die Kleeblätter as they kick off the new 2. Bundesliga season with zero points and zero goals scored — as of 14 Jul 2026.

What happened?

FSV Mainz 05 released Dal after the defender missed most of last season with a knee injury. For Mainz, Dal was no longer a first-team option; his competitive chances were limited to the club’s U23 side. «He has great potential. In our Bundesliga squad, competition at his position is so strong that his chances of playing were very low,» said Niko Bungert, sporting director at FSV Mainz 05.

Dal spent over a decade in Mainz’s youth ranks, progressing through the academy to the first team via the U23 side. For Greuther Fürth, the move is a clear defensive upgrade as they aim to tighten up a backline that has often struggled in the 2. Bundesliga. The new arrival is expected to add not just defensive solidity but also tactical versatility, particularly in build-up play.

Why this transfer matters for the club

Greuther Fürth manager Heiko Vogel sees Dal as an immediate asset. «He has excellent game intelligence and knows how to use his physicality on the pitch. With him, we get another left-footer, giving us different options in the build-up,» Vogel said. His left-footedness could add a new dimension to the team’s offensive structure.

Greuther Fürth begin the season with zero points and zero goals scored — pressure is already high. A reliable defender like Dal could help shore up the backline and secure early points. Fans are hoping he’ll be ready to feature from matchday one, possibly against VfL Bochum at home on 20 February 2027.

What’s next?

Dal will now integrate into the squad, but Vogel plans to use him early. «We’ll give him the chance to prove himself,» the manager said. The signing is Greuther Fürth’s latest move to strengthen the defense as they aim to climb the table from their current 16th-place position.