VfB Stuttgart: Hoeneß optimistic about Stiller staying
VfB Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeneß has raised hopes that national team player Angelo Stiller will remain with the club. According to media reports, the 25-year-old's buyout clause of €36.5 million has expired. 'I believe he has no way to leave if he wants to,' Hoeneß said at the start of preseason training. The midfielder, whose contract runs until 2028, will join training later.
What does this mean for VfB?
Hoeneß emphasized that Stiller appreciates the situation at VfB Stuttgart: 'He knows exactly what he has here.' The coach pointed to the team's development over the past three years. 'Not many clubs are clearly above VfB Stuttgart,' he said. With 62 points and fourth place in the Bundesliga (18 wins, 8 draws, 8 losses), VfB has had a strong season but trails Bayern Munich by 27 points. The recent 3-0 loss to Bayern, however, shows there is still work to be done.
Why might Stiller stay?
According to Hoeneß' assessment, 'something extraordinary' would have to happen for Stiller to leave the club. 'Many things point to him staying,' said the coach. The midfielder has contributed to 71 goals this season and is a key part of the team. With a goal difference of +22 (71 scored, 49 conceded), VfB has shown a strong offense. However, the recent form (1 win, 2 draws, 2 losses in the last five games) could also make other clubs interested.
What's next?
Stiller will join the team later as he has been on national team duty. VfB Stuttgart's next match is on August 1 against Paris FC. Until then, the question remains whether Stiller will indeed stay or if a transfer will still happen.
