VfB Stuttgart enters the 2026/27 Bundesliga season with a revamped squad and new tactical approaches. After a strong fourth-place finish last season and qualification for the Champions League, the club has invested approximately €55 million in new players this summer, including the 21-year-old striker Dzenan Pejcinovic for €25 million and Leo Sauer for around €15 million.
What does the new squad look like?
VfB Stuttgart's squad for the new season features a mix of experienced players and new faces. Deniz Undav, who extended his contract and scored 25 goals with 12 assists in 45 games last season, remains a key part of the attack. New signings like Pejcinovic and Sauer will also play important roles. The club has also acquired Bilal El Khannouss for €15 million from Leicester City and Grischa Prömel on a free transfer from Hoffenheim.
Departures include the return of Alexander Nübel to Bayern Munich, the sale of Jovan Milosevic to Sporting Braga for €8 million, and the loan of Laurin Ulrich to Paderborn. Dennis Seimen, who was set to be the new first-choice goalkeeper, is out for the start of the season with a thigh injury, leaving Fabian Bredlow as the current number one.
What tactical changes are planned?
Under coach Sebastian Hoeneß, who took over in 2023 and has since secured Champions League qualification twice, VfB Stuttgart will continue to employ a flexible tactical approach this season. Pre-season friendlies showed a mix of a back four and a back three, with the team scoring 20 goals in the first three matches. Players like Chris Führich, who scored in the first three friendlies and twice against Paris FC, and Nikolas Nartey, who scored against Everton, demonstrated their versatility.
The team will continue to focus on an aggressive pressing strategy and compact defense. With players like Maximilian Mittelstädt, Tiago Tomás, and Lazar Jovanovic, Stuttgart has a strong blend of experience and young talent.
What challenges lie ahead for Stuttgart?
Despite strong pre-season performances and new signings, VfB Stuttgart faces several challenges. Injuries to Dennis Seimen and other players like Dan Zagadou and Nikolas Nartey could impact squad planning. Additionally, the team must compensate for the loss of key players like Alexander Nübel and Jovan Milosevic.
With a goal difference of +22 and a fourth-place finish in the league last season, Stuttgart has proven to be one of the strongest teams in the Bundesliga. The next match against SC Paderborn 07 on October 10, 2026, will be an early test for the new squad.
Source: www.getfootballnewsgermany.com
