Bayer Leverkusen coach Carles Martinez has expressed his desire to keep Algerian midfielder Ibrahim Maza at the German club for many years, while backing the 20-year-old to develop into a potential Ballon d’Or contender.
Maza has attracted growing attention since the beginning of the season, with his performances reportedly drawing interest from several major European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain. However, Martinez has insisted that he is not concerned about the possibility of losing the young midfielder.
The Leverkusen coach praised Maza’s technical ability, humility and commitment to the team, highlighting the qualities he believes could help the Algerian international reach the highest level of the game.
Maza finished ninth in the 2026 Raymond Kopa Trophy rankings, which recognise the world’s best young player. Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal won the award, while Maza’s position among the nominees reflected the progress he has made in his career.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Martinez made it clear that Maza’s contribution extends beyond his performances on the pitch.
“He is a top-class player. Everyone loves him here because he helps the team and is selfless; and for me, that is the most important quality,” the Spanish coach said.
His comments underline the importance Leverkusen place on Maza’s team spirit, with the club keen to help him continue developing after his impressive start to the campaign.
Martinez compares Maza’s qualities to Harry Kane
Martinez believes Maza has the potential to compete for football’s biggest individual honours if he maintains his current approach and continues to improve.
The coach acknowledged how quickly the midfielder’s career has progressed, noting that his recent recognition among the world’s leading young players would have been difficult to predict a year ago.
“A year ago, he could not have imagined that there might be a (best young player award). Nobody knows how things go in life, but he has to continue working at the same pace as now, and stay true to himself.”
Martinez also drew a comparison between Maza’s attitude and that of England captain Harry Kane, whom he praised for his team-oriented approach and personal qualities.
Kane, who plays for Bayern Munich, won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, according to the supplied report, and Martinez used the England international as an example of how individual excellence can be supported by a strong personality and commitment to teammates.
“Harry Kane won that award yesterday thanks to his abilities as a team player, and also thanks to his personality as a human being,” Martinez said.
The comparison highlights the qualities the Leverkusen coach values in Maza and the importance he places on maintaining humility as the player’s reputation continues to grow.
Although Maza has already earned recognition for his performances, Martinez believes continued hard work and consistency will be essential if he is to fulfil his potential.
Leverkusen determined to keep Maza despite transfer rumours
Speculation over Maza’s future has increased following his performances this season, with Paris Saint-Germain among the clubs linked with an interest in the midfielder.
Leverkusen are reportedly seeking to extend his contract as they look to secure his future and protect the value of a player who has become increasingly important to the team.
However, Martinez dismissed suggestions that the transfer speculation was a major concern for him, stressing that the club were happy to have Maza in their squad.
“I never think about that. We are very happy to have him with us, and we want to keep him here for many, many years.”
Maza joined Leverkusen from Hertha Berlin last year for a reported fee of €12m. His development since arriving has strengthened his standing at the club, with his technical ability, vision and capacity to create attacking opportunities attracting attention.
His market value is currently estimated at €50m by Transfermarkt, according to the supplied report.
The Berlin-born midfielder has also established himself within the Algeria national team, adding international experience to his growing club career.
Maza’s playing style has drawn comparisons with former Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz, who now plays for Liverpool. Such comparisons reflect the excitement surrounding the Algerian’s development, although he still has considerable work ahead of him to reach the level Martinez believes he can attain.
For now, Leverkusen’s priority is to retain the midfielder and help him build on his progress. Martinez’s public backing sends a clear message that the club see Maza as an important part of their plans, despite the growing interest in his services.
