Another chapter is beginning for Deniz Undav at VfB, after he was appointed team captain in the summer. He has a great bond with VfB – just over two months ago, the Germany international signed a contract extension until 2029, including an option for a further year. There will certainly be plenty more games to add to the 119 competitive appearances he has made to date, in which he has posted 57 goals and 32 assists. Hopefully starting this Friday (4 September, 20:30 CEST) in the first home match of the season against FC Köln.
Hello Deniz, as of this season you’re VfB captain. What does that mean to you?
Deniz: “Stuttgart and VfB have become a second home for me and my family. Being captain of this club, with its rich history and incredible fans, is a great honour. I will wear the captain’s armband with pride. And if I manage to do it nearly as well as Ata [Karazor] has done over the last few years, then I will have probably done a lot right.”
Together your aim is to have another successful season. What are your expectations for this campaign?
Deniz: “It’s going to be an intensive season with a lot of matches. We need a really good level and good fitness. That’s why we worked hard in pre-season. We have to keep pushing and supporting each other, which makes every individual and the team better. We’ve made important steps in recent years and enjoyed success together, now we’ve gained some new signings and impetus, which will do us good. We have the right mix of experience and youth in our team. I’m really pumped up for the new season.”
After the opening match at FC Bayern, you have fixtures against Köln, Hoffenheim and Dortmund in the Bundesliga. How do you assess your opening schedule?
Deniz: “It’s a tricky opening schedule – at the same time, they’re attractive matches that I’m looking forward to. The fans will certainly create a magnificent atmosphere for our first home match against Köln, particularly with it being under the lights. Hoffenheim and Dortmund are teams who also have their eyes on the international places. They’ve both strengthened over the summer. From the very beginning, our approach is to have fun, give it our all on the pitch and be successful.”
Deniz Undav:
The fans will provide tremendous energy in the MHP Arena.
Köln beat Hoffenheim 3-2 on Matchday 1. What kind of encounter are you expecting?
Deniz: “The fans will provide tremendous energy in the MHP Arena. That gives us extra power and is all the more important for the task against Köln. We have to make sure we’re wide awake from the start and show that we’re willing to do whatever it takes to win at home.”
