VfB kicked off their pre-season preparations with one or two running and athletic drills, followed by passing and tactical exercises. Around 1,000 supporters attended the 70-minute session, with Sebastian Hoeneß’s players wearing their new 2026/27 home jerseys.
“We’re thrilled to get going again,” said VfB CEO Alexander Wehrle, adding: “We’re hoping to be as successful as possible this season in all three competitions.”
Board member for sport Fabian Wohlgemuth, meanwhile, added that VfB’s pre-season campaign will play a key role in helping Hoeneß’s charges achieve their aims next season. “It’s about laying the foundations, continuing our development and forming a strong unit once again,” he explained.
Jeff Chabot and Ramon Hendriks in light training
Two members of the VfB squad were taking things a little easier than their colleagues on Thursday. Jeff Chabot underwent a planned minor operation on his knee during the summer and will increase his workload over the coming days. Ramon Hendriks was unable to train at full capacity because of a heel problem, while Lorenz Assignon missed out altogether as he recovers from shoulder surgery.
World Cup stars given extended break
Seven first-team players were involved in the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA this summer. Angelo Stiller, Jamie Leweling, Deniz Undav, Ermedin Demirovic, Bilal El Khannouss, Luca Jaquez and Jeremy Arévalo will return to training at a later date, while Atakan Karazor – who was involved with the Turkish national team in the build-up to the tournament – has also been given a few more days off.
