Coach Sebastian Hoeneß has led VfB Stuttgart from relegation struggles to Champions League qualification, achieving a remarkable turnaround after taking charge in 2023. Despite recent setbacks, including three consecutive defeats, Stuttgart aims to secure their place in the DFB-Pokal quarter-finals against FC Augsburg. Hoeneß remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the bigger picture and maintaining confidence in his leadership, even amidst speculation about his future.
Coach Sebastian Hoeneß: A Transformative Journey with VfB Stuttgart
There’s no denying the exceptional capabilities of coach Sebastian Hoeneß at VfB Stuttgart. Under his guidance, the team has ascended from the depths of the relegation zone to the prestigious Bernabeu. However, a pivotal moment now looms as they prepare to face FC Augsburg in the cup match.
From Relegation Battles to Champions League Aspirations
VfB Stuttgart has faced its fair share of challenges, spending two seasons in the second league within the last decade, with the most recent being the 2019/20 season. After earning promotion, the team found itself in precarious situations on multiple occasions. In one instance, a last-minute goal salvaged their place in the top tier, while the following season, Stuttgart had to fight to avoid relegation.
In June 2023, the team’s fortunes changed dramatically thanks to two impressive victories over Hamburger SV, led by Hoeneß, who took over from Bruno Labbadia when Stuttgart was languishing at the bottom of the table. The high point of their campaign came on the 32nd matchday of the previous season when Stuttgart celebrated qualifying for the Champions League, finishing second in the standings, ahead of even FC Bayern.
However, the momentum seems to have shifted recently, with Stuttgart suffering three consecutive defeats. This downturn has raised concerns ahead of the DFB-Pokal quarter-finals against FC Augsburg, scheduled for Tuesday at 20:45. The team’s journey has transformed from competing in matches against lesser-known teams in the second league to facing giants like Real Madrid in the Bernabeu, which inevitably raises expectations.
The recent string of losses—most notably a disappointing 0:2 defeat at 1. FSV Mainz 05, followed by a 1:4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain—has prompted some doubts about the team’s direction. The response to the latter loss highlighted the strong competition, with fans acknowledging the elite-level experience despite the disappointment. However, the recent 1:2 home loss to Borussia Mönchengladbach has stirred discontent among supporters.
Currently, VfB Stuttgart sits fifth in the league, just one point shy of fourth place, which offers a solid opportunity to secure European travel for the 2025/26 season. Upcoming matches, including an important clash against Borussia Dortmund, could further impact their standings.
As they prepare to host FC Augsburg in the DFB-Pokal quarter-finals, Hoeneß remains optimistic. “Negative scenarios are not in my head,” he stated in a press conference. He emphasized the importance of looking at the bigger picture rather than dwelling on recent setbacks. “Eight days ago we were world champions, now we are bath masters,” he remarked, illustrating how rapidly fortunes can change in football.
VfB Stuttgart’s next match is crucial. The outcome will determine whether they advance or exit the competition without further thought. “We want to move to the next round, and that’s all that matters,” Hoeneß affirmed, reinforcing confidence in his leadership amidst speculation about his future with other clubs. His contract with VfB is valid until 2027, but an exit clause has been revealed, leading to potential discussions if their DFB-Pokal journey ends prematurely.