VfB Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeness confirmed on Wednesday that forward Deniz Undav is the new team captain, taking the position from Atakan Karazor.
"I think there's no doubt that he represents Stuttgart's success and their resurgence. Therefore, for me, it's a logical decision," Hoeness said in a news conference.
The Germany striker was already vice captain last season. He also led the team in the German Cup first-round win against Hansa Rostock last weekend, while Karazor was on the bench.
Karazor, who has been at Stuttgart since 2019, became captain in 2024, succeeding Waldemar Anton, who transferred to Borussia Dortmund at that time.
However, the defensive midfielder is increasingly at risk of losing his position in the starting line-up, as new signing Grischa Prömel has performed impressively so far.
Undav, meanwhile, has become a key player for Stuttgart with his goals and leadership.
Hoeness said that Karazor was "an absolutely worthy Stuttgart captain" over the past two years.
"He will always be remembered as the one who lifted the trophy," he said referring to the German Cup win in 2025.
Stuttgart start the Bundesliga season against Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich. Their last meeting was at the Cup final in May, which Bayern won 3-0.
Leave a Comment