Mainz signs coach Tuchel to extension

Mainz, Germany – Mainz signed coach Thomas Tuchel to a two- year contract extension Thursday, locking him up through the 2014-15 season.

The 38-year-old Tuchel, who became manager in August 2009, had a deal through next season. He led Mainz to fifth place in the Bundesliga last season and has guaranteed the club's survival this season despite a tough campaign.

"Tuchel is a top-drawer coach and the way he approaches his work, and the game of football, is just right for Mainz 05," Mainz sporting director Christian Heidel said. "He's the most important single element in our forward planning."

Tuchel has compiled a 39-35-27 record at Mainz, which sits 13th entering the final weekend of the Bundesliga season.

"The appreciation I've felt over the past few years on the part of the club, and our fans as well, is something very special," Tuchel said. "So for me, this contract extension is the natural corollary of that very close and trusting relationship."

Mainz has also agreed to contract extensions with 33-year-old goalkeeper Heinz Muller, and defenders Bo Svensson and Radoslav Zabavnik.