Danny da Costa has evolved into a crucial player for 1. FSV Mainz 05 after starting the season with minimal playtime. Following injuries to teammates and a tactical shift by the coach, he embraced his opportunity, showcasing impressive speed and skill. With Mainz currently in contention for Champions League qualification, da Costa’s personal life is also thriving, as he balances football with a happy marriage to Sarah, daughter of World Cup winner Uwe Bein.
Danny da Costa: From Benchwarmer to Key Player at Mainz 05
Danny da Costa has emerged as a pivotal figure for 1. FSV Mainz 05. In a recent episode of SWR Sport, the 31-year-old opened up about his satisfaction with both his professional and personal life.
This season has marked a remarkable transformation for Danny da Costa at Mainz 05. Initially, he saw limited action, participating only once by the ninth matchday of the Bundesliga. However, since then, he has become a regular, missing just one game—an unfortunate absence during the celebrated 2:1 victory against FC Bayern Munich due to a groin injury.
His ascent to a regular starting position has been aided by the injuries of fellow defenders like Andreas Hanche-Olsen and Maxim Leitsch. Additionally, coach Bo Henriksen’s tactical shift to a three-man defense has allowed da Costa to shine in his preferred right-back role.
A Journey of Determination and Improvement
During a candid discussion with host Lea Wagner, da Costa revealed the driving force behind his consistent playing time. “I had numerous conversations with the coach during my time on the bench,” he shared, laughing as he recalled, “I think I might have gotten on his nerves a bit.” He sought clarity on his lack of playing time and received honest feedback from Henriksen, who told him he wasn’t meeting the required standards at that time.
Instead of being discouraged, da Costa used this feedback as motivation. “I thought to myself, I’ll prove you wrong! I know I can contribute to the team!” He committed to giving his all during practices and maintaining a positive attitude. When the opportunity finally came, he seized it, playing confidently and steadily improving as the season progressed.
With remarkable speed, reaching nearly 35 kilometers per hour, da Costa stands out as the fastest player in the Mainz defense. His competitive spirit and composure in building play make him an invaluable asset to the team, bolstering Mainz’s ambitions for a European spot. Currently sitting fourth in the league, they are in contention for a Champions League qualification.
On a personal note, life is equally fulfilling for da Costa, who has been happily married to Sarah for nearly five years. The couple met during his stint at Eintracht Frankfurt, and he later discovered her father, Uwe Bein, is a legendary figure in German football, having won the World Cup in 1990.
Now, Uwe Bein is not just Danny’s father-in-law, but also a supportive figure in his football journey. “We often discuss games and strategies over the phone,” da Costa mentioned, though he playfully noted that Bein’s loyalty lies with Eintracht Frankfurt.
As they prepare for a crucial matchday against Frankfurt, which could determine their Champions League fate, the anticipation is palpable. Uwe Bein’s support and expectations for da Costa are clear: “You’re playing at a high level and have a few more years in you. Keep it up!”
As for Danny da Costa, he hopes to continue his journey with Mainz 05, despite his contract expiring this summer. “We are in talks, and it’s no secret that I feel at home here. Everything just clicks,” he said, embodying the essence of a player who has found joy and success both on and off the pitch.