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Sebastian Hoeneß defends Deniz Undav ahead of Champions League opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 10:20 AM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Sebastian Hoeneß defends Deniz Undav ahead of Champions League opener

Summary

VfB Stuttgart head coach Sebastian Hoeneß has dismissed external criticism regarding the form of captain Deniz Undav. The striker has not scored in three Bundesliga matches this season and was substituted during the 4-1 victory over 1. FC Köln. Hoeneß described the negative coverage of the 30-year-old as exaggerated and argued that statistics fail to capture the player's total contribution to the team. The coach also addressed concerns regarding Undav’s recent Achilles tendon issues, noting that the status of the player is not an immediate cause for alarm. Stuttgart prepares to host Viking FK on Wednesday in their opening match of the Champions League. Hoeneß emphasized that Undav remains a fundamental part of the squad that qualified for the tournament.

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By the Numbers

•Sebastian Hoeneß publicly defended Deniz Undav against criticism of his scoreless start to the season.
•Stuttgart won their most recent Bundesliga match 4-1 against 1. FC Köln.
•Undav was substituted at the 70-minute mark during the win over 1. FC Köln.
•Stuttgart plays Viking FK on Wednesday in the Champions League opening round.
•Hoeneß downplayed concerns regarding recent Achilles tendon issues reported after the Köln match.

Latest Updates

10:20 AMYahoo Sports — “I have to put my foot down now!” – Hoeneß defends Undav amid growing criticism

What they're saying

"
VfB Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeneß is growing tired of questions about Deniz Undav’s form.The 30-year-old has yet to find the net three games into the season and was most recently substituted 70 ...
— Yahoo Sports

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