Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Ibrahim Maza is drawing praise from German football specialists following his performance against Freiburg over the weekend, DZfoot reported. The 20-year-old Algeria international contributed a goal and an assist in the fixture, prompting discussions among analysts regarding his tactical role and long-term trajectory in the Bundesliga.

Polo Breitner Analyzes Maza’s Tactical Growth at Leverkusen

Speaking on RMC’s Génération After program, German football observer Polo Breitner discussed Maza’s integration into the Leverkusen squad under manager Xabi Alonso. Breitner noted that a shift in formation has allowed the young playmaker to dictate the tempo of matches.

“He is highlighted by the coach, because we went from a 3-6-1 to a very classic 4-2-3-1, with a number 10 named Ibrahim Maza,” Breitner said. “He is the one who drives the play, but with his work rate and technical quality, I prefer to drop him back to an 8.”

Breitner also highlighted Maza’s physical development and technical foundation, drawing on observations from his previous stint at Hertha Berlin in the 2. Bundesliga. “Maza is one of my favorites,” Breitner said. “I knew him back when he was at Hertha, and in D2, he didn’t have this work rate yet. I love these players who are 20 years old with a pretty monstrous body. You saw his thighs; it’s quite impressive for a player who has above-average technical quality.”

Evaluating the Fribourg Match and Comparisons to Florian Wirtz

Freiburg entered the weekend match unbeaten before Leverkusen secured the result, powered by contributions from Maza and veteran forward Patrik Schick. Breitner pointed out their decisive impact, noting that Schick and Maza carried the team through a difficult fixture.

The standout performances have inevitably triggered comparisons between Maza and former Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. When asked if the young Algerian could make supporters forget Wirtz, Breitner urged caution regarding high expectations.

“Will he make people forget Wirtz? Maybe, it’s not certain,” Breitner said. “Maza is only 20 years old and he is passing a milestone, but I want to see in a few years.”