Ibrahim Maza commits to Bayer Leverkusen despite naming dream clubs

The 20-year-old midfielder Ibrahim Maza has confirmed his long-term commitment to Bayer Leverkusen with a contract extension until 2030, despite naming PSG, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Arsenal as his dream clubs.

Ibrahim Maza has secured his long-term future at Bayer Leverkusen. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has agreed to an early contract extension until 2030 and will receive a salary increase, the club confirmed. His team currently sits sixth in the Bundesliga with 13 points, having scored 18 goals this season.

Maza recently played the full 90 minutes in the 4-0 Europa League win over Lech Poznan and scored in the Bundesliga against VfB Stuttgart. In his first twelve appearances of the season, the Berlin-born Algerian has registered four goals and three assists. "PSG is one of the best addresses in the world for him, just like Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and FC Arsenal," Maza said in an interview with RTL/ntv and Sky. He simultaneously stressed he has no plans to leave Leverkusen. "I am very happy here. We have a great team and a coach who trusts me. My development is absolutely the priority here," Maza added.

Extension in progress

The Bayer Leverkusen hierarchy plans to extend Maza's contract early. His current deal already runs until 2030. The planned early renewal and salary adjustment show the club's appreciation for the young player. Sporting director Simon Rolfes stated: "Ibrahim has earned a firm place in our team in a very short time. His dynamism and goal instinct are outstanding." Maza himself sees his immediate future in Leverkusen.

Champions League ambitions

His sporting ambitions are high. Maza aims to win the Champions League, become one of the world's best players and compete for the Ballon d'Or. A move to Paris Saint-Germain in the upcoming winter window is considered unlikely. Instead, he is focusing on the Europa League with Leverkusen, where the next match is on 5 November against Olympique Marseille. "Of course I have big goals. But the path to them now leads through Leverkusen for me." the midfielder said.

Bayer Leverkusen currently sit sixth in the Bundesliga with 13 points, five points behind leaders Bayern Munich. The team's recent form shows three wins and two defeats from the last five matches. The next league fixture is on Saturday 8 November away to 1. FC Köln, who currently occupy 13th place. Maza will play a key role in the push for European qualification, with the prolific Patrik Schick, who has seven goals, being the team's top scorer this season. His next target is featuring against Marseille in the Europa League.