VfB Stuttgart goalkeeper injury saga

In late July 2026, VfB Stuttgart reported that newly signed first‑choice goalkeeper Dennis Seimen and promising forward Justin Diehl each suffered thigh muscle injuries during preseason, sidelining them until at least the international break in September. Seimen, 20, suffered a muscle tear in his back thigh, while Diehl injured the front of his thigh. Sport director Fabian Wohlgemuth expressed disappointment but noted the squad maintained quality in the goalkeeper position, which includes Stefan Drljaca and Marius Funk.

The club initially indicated it would not enter the transfer market immediately, opting to rely on backup keeper Fabian Bredlow. A week later, Bredlow stated he was “in good spirits” about taking on a larger role following a strong performance in an 8‑1 friendly win, though the club continued to evaluate whether to seek external signings.

By late August, trainer Sebastian Hoeneß confirmed that Bredlow would continue as the primary starter, specifically naming him as the starter for the upcoming DFB-Pokal match against Hansa Rostock. Regarding Seimen, Hoeneß noted that the healing process is progressing well, with the goalkeeper now expected to return to action in early October.