What the sparrows had been whistling loudly from the rooftops of Berlin for days has now been officially confirmed: Marco Richter is leaving Hertha BSC and joining 1. FSV Mainz 05. Suat Serdar moves to Italy from the Old Lady. The clubs announced this on Tuesday.
Richter, who last captained Hertha BSC, has signed a “long-term contract” with 1. FSV Mainz 05, according to “mainz05.de”. The clubs involved have agreed not to disclose the general conditions of the deal.
However, the “Bild” reported in advance that around three million euros would change hands, signing the offensive player for four years in Mainz. A bargain, because the 25-year-old is said to have had a fixed transfer fee of 23 million euros anchored in his contract.
However, Richter received 1.2 million euros per season from the Berliners. A sum that the cash-strapped Herthan cannot easily invest – especially after being relegated from the Bundesliga and the complete false start to the 2nd Bundesliga season (3 games, 0 points).
“Marco had the opportunity to play in the Bundesliga again. He wanted to take advantage of it and we found a fair solution in the end. We thank Marco for his tireless commitment to Hertha BSC and wish him well in his sporting and personal life All the best,” says Berlin’s sports director Benjamin Weber on the deal.
Richter looks back on “two eventful years” at Hertha BSC
Richter himself explains on “herthabsc.de”: “They were two eventful years. I’ve always loved wearing this shirt and playing in front of the fans, which is why relegation still hurts. I hope all the more that Hertha will get back on track quickly .”
Mainz coach Bo Svensson also comments on the transfer: “After a few departures, we wanted to strengthen our attacking skills – and Marco is a player who fits our profile perfectly. We found each other very quickly in talks. I know him very well , despite his young age of only 25, he has already played in the Bundesliga for many years and has proven that he can not only score goals, but also set them up. He is very diligent on the pitch and has the necessary mentality to do so needs to play for us.”
In Mainz, Richter receives the number 10 jersey.
Serdar also leaves Hertha BSC
Shortly after the announcement of Richter’s departure, Hertha BSC already announced the next departure. Suat Serdar, who recently played no role and should be sold due to his high salary, joins the Italian first division club Hellas Verona.
“Suat had the opportunity to go abroad for the first time in his career. He was keen to take advantage of this opportunity. We wish him all the best and every success for the time in Italy,” said Weber on the farewell of the former German international.