Key Takeaways
- Maximilian Arnold will miss the rest of the 2025/26 Bundesliga season due to a groin injury
- The Wolfsburg captain will be absent for crucial matches against SC Freiburg, FC Bayern Munich and FC St. Pauli
- The 31-year-old midfielder may also miss a potential relegation play-off if the club finishes 16th
VfL Wolfsburg face a major crisis in their fight to stay in the Bundesliga. The club has lost their captain Maximilian Arnold for the remainder of the campaign due to a serious groin problem.
The 31-year-old suffered a fresh setback during training on Sunday. Head coach Dieter Hecking confirmed that the player and medical staff have decided to end his season immediately.
Arnold had been battling fitness issues for several weeks. He will now miss vital clashes against SC Freiburg, FC Bayern Munich and FC St. Pauli. If Wolfsburg finish in 16th place and enter a relegation play-off, their skipper will also be unavailable for those matches.
Hecking explained the decision in an official statement. He noted that Arnold had shown recent improvement but could not reach the fitness level needed for his energetic style of play. The coach added that the choice also protects the player’s health ahead of the next season.
Arnold expressed his disappointment to fans. The midfielder recently marked his 400th Bundesliga appearance for the Wolves. He admitted he tried every possible treatment to return to action.
“When you realise it is simply not possible, you must make a painful choice,” Arnold stated. He promised to stay close to the team during his rehabilitation. The captain vowed to support his teammates as they battle to avoid relegation.
Wolfsburg are currently fighting to retain their top-flight status. Losing their influential leader leaves a significant gap in midfield for the final weeks of the season.