On Wednesday 14 October, VfB Stuttgart face Slovan Bratislava on Matchday 2 of the UEFA Champions League league phase (kick-off 21:00 CEST). VfB head coach Sebastian Hoeneß is approaching the encounter with respect: “We’re up against Slovakia’s record champions, who play good football and have a clear game plan.”
The Stuttgart boss is therefore reluctant to accept the favourites tag: “We experienced the atmosphere in Bratislava two years ago and know what to expect.” On that occasion, on Matchday 7 of the 2024/25 Champions League league phase, VfB ran out 3-1 winners.
Stuttgart are just as determined to succeed this time around. While Hoeneß’s side opened their European campaign with a 3-1 home victory over Viking Stavanger, Bratislava suffered a 6-1 defeat away to defending champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Leo Sauer :
My friends, parents and family will all be at the stadium. Of course, this is a very special game for me.
Praise for Leo Sauer
Hoeneß is keeping his plans for squad rotation during the busy fixture schedule under wraps for now. “The Bundesliga is and remains our main priority, but at the same time, the Champions League is something truly special,” said the 44-year-old. “We’re taking things one game at a time.”
One player hoping for more minutes is Leo Sauer. The Slovakian joined VfB from Dutch giants Feyenoord in summer 2026, having previously spent part of his youth career with Wednesday’s opponents.
“We’ve gradually eased Leo back in following his injury,” said Hoeneß. “He’s a hugely talented player and very strong in one-on-one situations.” Sauer, who was born in Bratislava, added: “My friends, parents and family will all be at the stadium. Of course, this is a very special game for me.”
Jeff Chabot available
Maximilian Mittelstädt is unavailable due to a cut on his heel. Jeff Chabot experienced muscular discomfort during the 2-0 away victory in Paderborn but is among the options for Wednesday’s clash with the Slovakian side.
Hoeneß will also be without Dan-Axel Zagadou, Ameen Al-Dakhil, Nikolas Nartey and Justin Diehl.
