Overview
- VfB Stuttgart confirmed Tuesday that Dan-Axel Zagadou has a muscular hamstring injury and will be unavailable for training and matches “in the coming weeks,” with media reports estimating a four- to six-week layoff.
- The injury happened during Stuttgart’s 3-1 pre-season friendly with Everton when Zagadou clutched his posterior thigh and was substituted after about 30–32 minutes as a precaution.
- Coach Sebastian Hoeneß said the early removal was precautionary and sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth expressed particular regret given Zagadou’s history of long absences.
- Zagadou’s long injury record predates his Stuttgart move; since signing in September 2022 he has made 50 competitive appearances and missed around 97 matches, and his contract runs until 30 June 2027.
- The setback has prompted the club to reassess its defensive depth and transfer thinking, increasing the likelihood that Ameen Al-Dakhil will remain at Stuttgart while the club delays any urgent outside signings.