Lorenz Assignon is closing in on a comeback for VfB Stuttgart following shoulder surgery. The right-back has returned to team training after his rehabilitation.
Assignon underwent the procedure shortly after the lost DFB-Pokal final against FC Bayern Munich. The club's target was always a return in August. After completing his rehab in his home country, the Frenchman rejoined the squad about a week ago. He is now training with the team again. A appearance on the opening Bundesliga matchday on August 28th is not yet guaranteed, but he is on schedule.
The exact return date for Lorenz Assignon to competitive action remains open. He has completed initial on-pitch sessions, but the step into full team training is the key next one. VfB Stuttgart is showing patience, as the 24-year-old struggled with recurring shoulder issues last season. He was sidelined in late October and December, missing two matches each time. A full recovery is now the priority to become a reliable option on the right side of defence long-term. The current squad situation makes his return desirable nonetheless.
The competition for Assignon's position has changed during the summer break. Christopher Olivier, an Austrian talent who could also cover the right side, has already left the club. Josha Vagnoman is allowed to leave VfB Stuttgart if a suitable offer arrives. As an internal alternative, Nikolas Nartey remains in the squad. The Dane has played at right-back in the past and performed well. If Assignon regains fitness, he and Nartey could form a strong duo. The complete squad overview can be found on our squad page.
A fit Lorenz Assignon is an important piece for the coach and sporting director. Last season, he couldn't fully realize his potential due to the injuries. His pace and tackling strength would be an asset for the defence. The team starts the season with a DFB-Pokal away game at Hansa Rostock before the Bundesliga kicks off. The full schedule for the new campaign is available in our fixtures calendar. A strengthened VfB Stuttgart aims to compete at the top again after finishing second last season; the current league table is viewable at standings.
The team's medical and performance data, including the progress of players in rehab, is maintained on our injuries page. Assignon's next milestone is full participation in contact training. His contract with VfB Stuttgart runs until the summer of 2028.
