Berlin, a city that is renowned for its versatility and variety, can be a bit too overwhelming for some, including Pal Dardai, the coach of Hertha BSC. According to Dardai, the vast array of distractions in the city might be a hindrance to some players who may struggle to focus solely on football. He also pointed out another issue, which he referred to as “negativity,” a term he used for the critical local media landscape.
This negativity, he believes, is most prevalent in the local media, where he feels there is always a knack to find something negative to report. This constant negativity, he fears, is being felt by his players as well. He expressed his concern during a press conference, stating that it is not surprising if talented footballers do not wish to prolong their stay in such a club.
Despite these challenges, there is some good news for the club. Fabian Reese, arguably the best footballer in the second division, has extended his contract with Hertha BSC. Furthermore, the club announced that Tim Goller, a highly promising goalkeeper, has also extended his contract until 2027. These player decisions demonstrate that despite the city and press-related challenges, there are still players who are willing to commit to Hertha BSC.
Hertha still stands a chance of playing in the Bundesliga next season, with a deficit of just eight points. A victory on Friday at the Berlin Olympic Stadium against second-placed Holstein Kiel, Fabian Reese’s former club, could be a significant boost. The club is expecting a turnout of at least 40,000 spectators.
It is likely that Ibrahim Maza, an offensive player, will also be a part of Hertha’s starting line-up. Maza is one of the players that Dardai sincerely hopes will not be swayed by the city’s allure or pushed away by the media’s negativity. Dardai has known Maza since he was in the U16 team and has coached him since then.
Dardai had high praises for Maza, stating that he was one of the most talented players in Hertha’s youth ranks. He has urged Maza to remain diligent and not let his talent go to waste. Maza, despite facing setbacks due to a meniscus injury, has indeed stayed diligent and is expected to have significant playing time in the game against Kiel.
In spite of his injury, Maza’s market value stands at 600,000 euros, a testimony to his exceptional talent. He is represented by CAA Stellar, one of the largest player agencies in the world, which boasts clients like Eduardo Camavinga and Jack Grealish. Hertha BSC would surely like to extend Maza’s contract as soon as possible, a decision that would surely make Dardai, a fan of Maza, very happy.
