Mads Pedersen, the new 29-year-old Danish left-back at Hertha Berlin, has immediately taken on a leadership role within the squad. The experienced defender, whose contract runs until 2027 with an option for an additional year, is set to act as a mentor for 17-year-old left-back Mayson Grothe, who came through the club’s academy and is one of only two naturally left-footed defenders in the squad alongside Pedersen. Head coach Stefan Leitl confirmed the plan, saying: „setzt große Stücke auf den Dänen“ and adding: „Der erfahrene Profi soll Mentor für Herthas junges Linksverteidiger-Talent Mayson Grothe werden“. Pedersen joined after Hertha had searched for months for a left-back option and is expected to start in the upcoming match against Braunschweig on Friday. In a training match on Tuesday, Pedersen scored two goals through intelligent runs and took corners from the left flank – previously handled by Marten Winkler, who has since transferred to Anderlecht. Grothe, who recently signed his first professional contract, did not feature in the 2. Bundesliga squad this season but impressed in pre-season. Meanwhile, Deyovaisio Zeefuik, a 28-year-old right-footed Dutchman deployed at left-back, is training individually at reduced intensity due to fitness shortcomings after a short preparation and is suspended for two games following a red card. Additionally, Gustav Christensen and Jón Dagur Þórsteinsson are currently sidelined with injuries, further thinning the defensive options. Pedersen’s dual role as performer and mentor could prove vital in stabilizing the left side of defense. For more on the squad, visit our squad page, and check upcoming fixtures on our fixtures page.