Heidenheim officially announced on Saturday that they have completed the contract extension with captain Patrick Mainka. The new contract will extend the contract by two years, from the original expiration date of 2027 to June 30, 2029.

Mainka, 30, is a 1.94-meter-tall German center-back who earlier in his career played for Bielefeld II, Werder Bremen II, and Borussia Dortmund II. Since joining Heidenheim as a free agent in 2018, he has made 259 appearances across all competitions, scoring 19 goals and providing seven assists, playing a key role in the team's promotion to the Bundesliga in the 2022/23 season.

After completing the contract extension, Holger Sonnwald, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Heidenheim, said: "Patrick Mainka's contract extension is undoubtedly special news for the entire club as we embark on our third Bundesliga season. As an absolute key player and long-term captain, Patrick has played a decisive role in enabling us to experience this important moment together at Heidenheim. For this reason, we are even more pleased that he has chosen to stay at Heidenheim for the long term at this time."

"Patrick Mainka not only demonstrates his long-proven skills on the pitch, but also embodies the spirit of Heidenheim in the most exemplary way both on and off the pitch. What sets him apart is his dedication and sense of responsibility towards the team and the club as a whole."

Mainka added: "Heidenheim SC, the city, the region and its people have long been my second home. In Heidenheim, I was able to develop as a Bundesliga professional and continue to grow in this special environment."

"Over the past few years, we have experienced many unforgettable and touching moments together. In the process, we have pushed boundaries and realized dreams. I am very excited to continue our joint journey and work with everyone to realize the next dream!"