“A really special moment”

Alexander Wehrle, CEO: “When looking at the draw pots beforehand, we knew we would be facing top-class opponents in Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus. That’s how it turned out. We are happy and proud that VfB Stuttgart will finally be back in the Champions League after 2010. Our team, coaching staff, the entire club, VfB fans and the entire city are all looking forward to the matches.”

Fabian Wohlgemuth, board member for sport: “It’s a really special moment that we want to hold on to. After what feels like an eternity, we can once again test ourselves against the best teams in Europe. I’m delighted for our team and fans, for the entire club. The prospect of these fantastic matches and famous clubs has electrified Stuttgart and the entire region. We don’t just want to make up the numbers. I know Sebastian and the whole team will give their all to make an impression on our return to the European stage.”

VfB head coach Sebastian Hoeneß: “It was very special to watch the draw. We’ll be competing against the best clubs in Europe and we’re really looking forward to it. Playing Real Madrid away was at the top of the wish list for many of our players and members of the coaching staff. We qualified for the Champions League together last season, and we’ll tackle these big challenges together too.”