It’s a return after 10 years for Marius Funk, who will bolster VfB’s first-team goalkeeping department for next season. The 30-year-old arrives from Energie Cottbus, where he was an ever-present last season as the club secured promotion to the second tier. He has signed a deal valid until 30 June 2028.
Funk is a product of the Cannstatt club’s academy, having risen through the ranks from U15 to U21 level between 2011 and 2016. The 1.87-metre shot-stopper won the German U17 Championship with VfB in 2013 and made seven appearances for the U21 side in the 3. Liga in the 2015/16 season. After that, he had spells at SpVgg Greuther Fürth, FC Ingolstadt and most recently Cottbus. He returns to Stuttgart with the experience of 128 games in the third tier, five in Bundesliga 2 and eight in the Bundesliga.
‘Always followed VfB closely’
Fabian Wohlgemuth, VfB board member for sport: “After learning his trade at VfB, Marius Funk has gained a lot of experience at different clubs and now returns to Stuttgart as a seasoned pro. We are pleased that Marius will be part of our goalkeeping team going forward, and are convinced that he will be an important new addition for us with both his footballing abilities and his personal qualities.”
Marius Funk: “I have always followed VfB closely since leaving, watching the matches when possible. Over the last few years, VfB have come out of a difficult period and developed into one of the top clubs in Germany. They are now back where they belong with the power of the fans, the stadium and the city. I am really looking forward to my return and want to play my part in continuing on this path.”
