Snow Disrupts VfB Stuttgart’s Training Plans Ahead of Wolfsburg Clash
Stuttgart, Germany – VfB Stuttgart’s preparations for their upcoming Bundesliga match against VfL Wolfsburg were thrown into disarray by a blanket of snow that covered their training ground.
Snow-Covered Training Ground
According to VfB head coach Sebastian Hoeneß, the training pitch was rendered unusable by the heavy snowfall. "Unfortunately, we couldn’t clear it," he explained. "So we just played a game. That was the only thing that made sense."
Despite the disruption, Hoeneß remained upbeat about the situation. "The mood showed that it was the right approach," he said.
Unaccustomed Schedule
In addition to the snowy conditions, VfB Stuttgart are also adjusting to an unusual schedule that has granted them six days off between their previous match against Borussia Dortmund and their upcoming clash with Wolfsburg on Saturday.
Positive Effects of Break
Hoeneß allowed the team two days off after the Dortmund match. "The positive effect was already visible on the first day of training," he noted. "I noticed a renewed freshness and energy."
Squad Updates
German international Deniz Undav, who was sidelined by a cold during the week, is expected to be available for the Wolfsburg game. "He’s the least doubtful," Hoeneß said.
Fellow attacker Jacob Bruun Larsen, who also fell ill, remains questionable. Defender Ameen Al-Dakhil, who suffered a thigh strain, will continue to be absent.
Looking Ahead to Wolfsburg
VfB Stuttgart will be keen to build on their impressive 2-1 victory over Dortmund. They currently sit in 11th place in the Bundesliga standings, with 21 points from 18 matches.
Wolfsburg, on the other hand, have struggled for consistency this season. After a strong start under former coach Niko Kovac, they have won just one of their last five Bundesliga games. They currently occupy 14th place in the table, with 18 points.
Key Match-ups:
- Sasa Kalajdzic (Stuttgart) vs. Maxence Lacroix (Wolfsburg): A battle between two towering center-backs who will be crucial in their respective teams’ defensive efforts.
- Gonzalo Castro (Stuttgart) vs. Renato Steffen (Wolfsburg): Two experienced midfielders who will be tasked with controlling the tempo of the game.
- Silas Wamangituka (Stuttgart) vs. Ridle Baku (Wolfsburg): Two pacy and skillful wingers who could be decisive in creating scoring opportunities.
The match between VfB Stuttgart and VfL Wolfsburg will take place on Saturday, January 8th at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Stuttgart. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM CET.
