“We’re well prepared”

VfB head coach Sebastian Hoeneß must make do without eight members of his squad for the team’s first competitive match of the 2023/24 season. Deniz Undav (ligament tear), Josha Vagnoman (stress fracture in his foot), Nikolas Nartey (knee operation) and Laurin Ulrich (throat inflammation) are all unavailable for the DFB Cup first-round tie, while the match in Reutlingen also comes too soon for Thomas Kastanaras (broken foot), Fabian Bredlow (hip) and Maximilian Mittelstädt (ligament tear).

The latter trio are all currently only taking part in certain sections of training. Borna Sosa will not feature either as he is suspended following his sending-off in the semi-finals against Eintracht Frankfurt last season. Nevertheless, Hoeneß is going into the fixture full of optimism: “In pre-season we got through everything we wanted to in sporting terms. But it’s from now on that counts. We’re concentrating fully on the cup game.”

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Balingen in focus

The tactician will not be underestimating Balingen, who are regular opponents of VfB’s U21 side: “They’ve done well for years in the Regionalliga [fourth tier]; they’re tough to play against, are good in transition and have found a way to produce consistent performances. We’re well prepared, but we have a job to do and we want to reach the next round.”

Nübel to play, Endo captain

Summer arrival Alexander Nübel will be in goal against Balingen. “Alex only joined us late in our preparations, so it’s important that he plays in goal in the cup,” said Hoeneß. “He gives off good vibes, radiates calm both on and off the pitch and is very balanced. He’s not someone to shout loudly but he’s been integrated quickly. He’s a great guy.”

Another decision was made recently, this time in terms of the team captain: Wataru Endo will continue to lead the side out as skipper in 2023/24, with Waldemar Anton vice-captain. “Wataru and Waldemar are two important leading players and are exceptional footballers,” said Hoeneß. “For that reason we didn’t make any changes in this regard.” The player council is made up of Dan-Axel Zagadou, Pascal Stenzel, Fabian Bredlow and Atakan Karazor.