Sheraldo Becker returns to Mainz on loan from Osasuna

The 30-year-old reunited with head coach Urs Fischer, under whom he enjoyed his best Bundesliga spell at Union Berlin. Becker arrives as a direct replacement for Benedict Hollerbach, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign through injury.

Mainz moved quickly to secure the deal, prioritising familiarity and immediate impact as the club focused on their fight to secure vital points.

Sporting director Niko Bungert said Becker's knowledge of both the league and the coach made the move an obvious solution. "Sheraldo Becker knows the league and the coach very well," Bungert said. "We're pleased that, in such a short time, we were able to find a solution that requires minimal adjustment and adds extra quality to our squad."

Becker also spoke of his enthusiasm about returning to Germany and working again with Fischer. "I'm delighted the move worked out so quickly and I'm excited to return to the Bundesliga," he said. "I played almost all of my Bundesliga games under Urs Fischer and I'm happy to be working with him again."

The forward made it clear his focus was immediate results, adding: "Now it's about securing as many points as possible in the relegation battle."

Mainz will hope Becker's experience proves decisive in the weeks ahead.