VfB Stuttgart has named 30-year-old striker Denis Undav as the club’s new captain, taking over from Atakan Karazor, who led the team for the last two seasons. Head coach Sebastian Hoeneß highlighted Undav’s experience, stating, “Denis is an experienced player who’s already carried a lot of responsibility, is always in close contact with the coaching staff and the players, and also enjoys a high standing.” Hoeneß also acknowledged Karazor’s contributions, noting, “‘Ata’ has likewise been an absolutely worthy captain over the last two seasons and will always be remembered as the one who lifted the DFB Cup in 2025.”

Upon stepping into the captaincy, Undav expressed his appreciation for the role, saying, “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 has done over the last few years, then I will have probably done a lot right.”

Undav becomes the 24th captain in the club’s history, following notable names such as Thomas Hitzlsperger, Christian Gentner, and Gonzalo Castro. As he embarks on his fourth season with Stuttgart, Undav is set to lead his team against Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga opener on Friday. During his time with Stuttgart, he has recorded 46 goals and 20 assists in the Bundesliga.

GGFN | Brook Genene

VfB Stuttgart has announced that 30-year-old striker Denis Undav will become the new club captain, succeeding Atakan Karazor, who held the position for the last two seasons. “Deniz is an experienced player who’s already carried a lot of responsibility, is always in close contact with the coaching staff and the players, and also enjoys a high standing,” explained head coach Sebastian Hoeneß. “He’s a key player on the pitch and has been instrumental to our success. ‘Ata’ [Atakan Karazor] has likewise been an absolutely worthy captain over the last two seasons and will always be remembered as the one who lifted the DFB Cup in 2025.” Upon assuming the new role, the new captain stated: “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 has done over the last few years, then I will have probably done a lot right.” Undav has now become the club’s 24th captain, following in the footsteps of players like Thomas Hitzlsperger, Christian Gentner, and Gonzalo Castro. The German striker is set to start his fourth season at Stuttgart with his side taking on Bayern Munich in Friday’s Bundesliga opener. Undav has 46 goals and 20 assists in the Bundesliga for the Swabians.

GGFN | Brook Genene