Stuttgart Striker Woltemade Poised for Starting Role Return at Hoffenheim
Stuttgart attacker Nick Woltemade is on the cusp of reclaiming his starting spot in the team’s upcoming away match against TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. Head coach Sebastian Hoeneß hinted at the strong possibility of Woltemade’s inclusion in his starting lineup for the Sunday clash (19:30 CET / DAZN).
Woltemade, who has sat out the past three matches from the outset, was already on an upward trajectory prior to his recent illness, according to Hoeneß. "A player who has made tremendous progress," Hoeneß remarked.
Woltemade played a pivotal role in Stuttgart’s 1:2 loss to Wolfsburg, contributing their solitary goal through an impressive solo effort. In contrast, record signings Deniz Undav and Ermedin Demirovic have endured a four-match goalless drought in the Bundesliga.
Hoeneß believes the entire team needs to contribute to ending the attacking duo’s barren spell. He acknowledged the current lack of "ease of creation" in the team’s attacking play. The onus is on the entire squad to generate a greater number of goal-scoring opportunities, he stressed.
"We’re encountering more difficulties than usual in this regard," Hoeneß admitted, calling for increased dynamism and precision from his attacking players. "Our forwards will also benefit from that."
Jacob Bruun Larsen, who made the switch from Hoffenheim to Stuttgart in the winter, remains unavailable for selection after recovering from an infection. Meanwhile, defender Ameen Al-Dakhil’s thigh injury will sideline him for longer than initially anticipated. "It’s not a setback," Hoeneß emphasized.
Woltemade’s resurgence
Woltemade’s impending return is a timely boost for Stuttgart, who have struggled in his absence. The 23-year-old has emerged as an integral part of Hoeneß’s system, combining technical prowess with an eye for goal.
Known for his dribbling ability and ability to create chances for his teammates, Woltemade has scored four goals in 17 Bundesliga appearances this season. His impressive performances have earned him plaudits from both fans and pundits alike.
Record signings underperform
Undav and Demirovic, acquired by Stuttgart for a combined fee of over €20 million, have failed to live up to expectations. Undav has netted just five times in 17 league appearances, while Demirovic has managed only three goals in 16 games.
Their lack of goals has contributed to Stuttgart’s inconsistent form. The Swabian club currently sits in 15th place in the Bundesliga standings, just three points above the relegation zone.
Team effort required
Hoeneß has emphasized the need for collective responsibility in addressing the team’s attacking woes. He believes that a renewed focus on creating more high-quality chances will benefit not only Undav and Demirovic but the entire team.
With the season entering its crucial final stages, Stuttgart will need to find their attacking rhythm to secure their Bundesliga status. Woltemade’s return to the starting lineup could provide the necessary spark to ignite their offense and lead them out of the relegation mire.
