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Mainz appoint Sandro Schwarz as new manager on three-year contract

Mainz have appointed Sandro Schwarz as their new manager.

Schwarz, 38, has signed a three-year contract after being promoted from his position as coach of the club's under-23 team.

Mainz sporting director Rouven Schroeder said: "We're happy to get Sandro on board. He embodies Mainz, that's what we need. We need this change."

At a news conference to announce his new role, Schwarz added: "To be sitting here now is a huge honour for me, a huge chance.

"I want to help develop the players and for us to play winning football that also pleases the fans.

"I think I have the tools to succeed thanks to my experience with the U19s and U23s in the Oberliga, Regionalliga, and 3. Liga.

"I'm really looking forward to the Bundesliga. It'll definitely be a different challenge compared to the 3. Liga."

Schwarz replaces Martin Schmidt who left the club at the end of the season.

Mainz battled against relegation last season, only avoiding the relegation playoff on goal difference following two wins in their final 12 Bundesliga games of the season.

Schwarz, who was born in Mainz, came through the club's youth system before making 100 appearances for the senior team between 1998 and 2004.

Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel have previously managed the club, who have a reputation for giving young managers a chance.

Information from the Press Association and the Associated Press was used in this report.

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