Overview

• Former Rhein-Neckar Löwen playmaker Andy Schmid says he expects a clear step forward and believes Stuttgart could be this season’s big surprise.
• Misha Kaufmann has replaced Jürgen Schweikardt as head coach, with Schweikardt returning to his managing-director role after combining both jobs since November 2024.
• Stuttgart secured safety only late last season, finishing 16th, which intensified the push for a sporting reset.
• Schmid points to Kaufmann’s track record of twice keeping ThSV Eisenach in the Bundesliga and argues the Stuttgart region’s resources suggest higher potential.
• The season is underway with a revamped squad, including additions such as Antonio Serradilla and Simone Mengon, and a home opener against HSV Hamburg on Sunday.