Rumors continue to circulate regarding Sebastian Hoeneß’s potential summer departure from VfB Stuttgart, with Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig both linked as possible destinations. However, this speculation may ultimately lead nowhere. In an editorial published today, Kicker’s Benni Hofmann presents a compelling argument for why the Stuttgart boss could remain in charge beyond the current campaign.
Hoeneß is nearing the two-year anniversary of his appointment at Stuttgart, having taken over in April 2023 following the disastrous tenure of Bruno Labbadia. His arrival brought immediate success, as he steered the club to safety via the promotion-relegation playoffs at the end of the 2023/24 season. Recognizing his impact, Stuttgart rewarded him with a contract extension when Champions League qualification appeared imminent in April 2024.
The Exit Clause and Uncertain Alternatives
While his contract includes an exit clause, it is widely understood that this provision expires at the end of April 2025. This timeline suggests that Hoeneß may not feel pressured to determine his next move just yet.
At the same time, possible openings at Leverkusen or Leipzig may not be as enticing as they initially seem. Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso has been linked with both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, but with Vincent Kompany settling in at Bayern and Carlo Ancelotti staying put in Madrid, such a move appears unlikely. Meanwhile, Leipzig—and even Dortmund—do not offer the type of stability that would make a switch appealing.
Stuttgart’s Appeal and Lessons from Hoffenheim
Hoeneß is likely mindful of the challenges he faced at Hoffenheim, where he spent two seasons managing a team that struggled to maintain balance. Despite competing in the Europa League during his tenure, Hoffenheim failed to secure another European qualification under his leadership. Stuttgart, by contrast, provides him with a say in squad planning—something that is crucial to his approach.
“Sebastian Hoeneß is entitled to express his wishes to the sporting management [board-member-for-sport Fabian Wolhgemuth and sporting director Christian Gentner], with desire to squad composition,” Hofmann notes, emphasizing that his preferences are typically respected.
Additionally, the belief that Hoeneß’s future is tied solely to Stuttgart’s European qualification prospects has been overstated in recent discussions. Given the limited opportunities elsewhere and the strong connection he has built with the club, remaining in Stuttgart appears to be a logical decision.
“There’s reason to believe that [Hoeneß’s] story with Stuttgart won’t end after the season wraps,” Hofmann concludes.
