Patrick Mainka 

Patrick Mainka, the 30-year-old stalwart at the heart of Heidenheim's defence, exhibits a style of play that combines tenacity with a keen sense of positioning. His defensive stats highlight a remarkable aptitude for ball recovery, showcasing his knack for intercepting opposition plays and regaining possession for his team. Mainka shines in penalty area defending, demonstrating a commanding presence that frustrates attackers. While he's not the most creative passer, his ability to drive the ball forward with progressive carries adds an unexpected dimension to his game. His aerial duels and 1v1 defending are solid, though there’s room for improvement when it comes to retaining possession under pressure. Interestingly, Mainka also poses a decent goal threat for a centre-back, which could be a valuable asset in set-piece situations. This scout report underscores Mainka as a reliable defensive cornerstone, whose strengths lie primarily in his defensive acumen and occasional offensive contributions.