Reflecting on the international break during Thursday’s pre-match press conference, Pellegrino Matarazzo said he is pleased with the efforts of his squad on the training pitch. “The players who have been here in Stuttgart have worked very hard,” he said. “They were very focused in what they were doing.
“It’s normal during the international break that players come back with different emotions and experiences. It’s about quickly turning our attentions to Saturday. I’m sure the lads will show maximum effort on the pitch.”
In Arminia Bielefeld, VfB are facing one of their direct rivals in their bid to avoid relegation. “Bielefeld’s games are usually very tight,” added Matarazzo. “Arminia take few risks when in possession, they counter-press well and frequently win the ball back in the opposition half. We have to be alert. In every situation we’ll have to weigh up chances and risks. It’s going to be tight and tough. We’re looking forward to the game.”
It remains to be seen whether Borna Sosa, who is suffering from adductor problems, will be involved on Saturday. Hiroki Ito on the other hand has returned to training following his coronavirus infection and, according to Matarazzo, has made a good impression. Mohamed Sankoh is also making good progress in his recovery, but Philipp Förster, Lilian Egloff (both in light training) and Danial Didavi (Achilles tendon problems) will definitely miss the trip to Bielefeld.