Svensson steps down as coach of Bundesliga strugglers Mainz

Danish manager Bo Svensson has resigned as coach of last-placed Bundesliga side Mainz, the club announced on Thursday.

"It's very difficult for me to say goodbye, but I have the feeling that now is the time" Svensson said in a statement.

A former Mainz centre-back, the 44-year-old was named head coach in January 2021 and took the side, who had lost 10 of 14 league matches, from last on the table to 12th.

Mainz thanked Svensson for overseeing the "sensational comeback" which saw them avoid relegation.

"Mainz owes Bo a lot, especially the fact that we're still playing in the Bundesliga."

This season, winless Mainz sit in last position, having netted just three points from nine matches.

Mainz lost 3-0 to second division Hertha Berlin on Wednesday night in the German Cup.

A club with a relatively small following located south-west of Frankfurt, Mainz is known for giving younger managers a chance.

Both Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel were given their first head coaching job at Mainz.

Svensson took Mainz to eighth place in his first full season in charge and ninth in 2022-23, despite having one of the smallest budgets in the league.

Svensson said on Thursday it was "difficult to say goodbye" but that "no individual is above the club".

"Now, more than ever, the club need the solidarity that has distinguished us."

The club's under-23 manager Jan Siewert will take over on an interim basis.