Fabio Gruber

Signs for Mainz

Gruber has joined Mainz from Nurnberg, with the 23-year-old Peruvian international center-back making the step up to the Bundesliga after an impressive spell in the second division, the club announced.

Analysis: Gruber made 41 second division appearances for Nurnberg since January 2025 including 38 full 90-minute outings, serving as club captain and demonstrating the leadership qualities that have defined his career at each club he has represented, having also worn the armband at third-division side SC Verl. Sporting director Niko Bungert praised his physicality, technical quality and top character, describing him as a young defender with impressive leadership credentials despite his age. Gruber expressed his excitement at the prospect of playing in the Bundesliga for the first time, highlighting his positive early conversations with coach Urs Fischer as a key factor in his decision to join Mainz.