VfB Stuttgart have secured Dan-Axel Zagadou’s services until 2027. The defender stays despite missing nearly 700 days on the pitch – but his new salary is strictly performance-based.
Why Zagadou stays despite injury woes
In the past four years, Zagadou missed almost 700 days through injury, skipping 97 competitive games. Yet whenever he played, the Frenchman stood out for his aerial duels and composure, ranking among the Bundesliga’s best centre-backs. That convinced the club to extend his deal despite the risks.
His new contract slashes his base salary. Instead of earning around €3.5 million a year, he now earns a minimal base wage topped by high match and point bonuses. The club wins when he plays – and saves money when he doesn’t.
The club’s reaction
Fabian Wohlgemuth, VfB’s sporting director, praised Zagadou’s attitude: “Daxo is a key part of our squad both for his footballing qualities and his personality. After setbacks caused by injury, he fought his way back with hard work and remains a valuable option in defence.”
Zagadou responded: “I’m delighted by the trust shown in me. I’ll do everything possible to deliver top performances for the coaching staff, the club and the fans next season.”
VfB Stuttgart currently sit fourth in the Bundesliga with 62 points from 34 games and a +22 goal difference (71:49). Though 27 points behind leaders Bayern München, their last five matches delivered just one win and two losses (LLDDW).
What’s next?
As the new season approaches, the big question is how often Zagadou will actually play. His contract rewards presence and performance, yet his injury history remains a concern. Fans hope for more defensive stability, especially after the 0-3 loss to Bayern München on 23 May 2026.
