VfL Wolfsburg have suffered a significant setback ahead of the new Bundesliga season after new signing Timon Wellenreuther was ruled out for several weeks with a knee injury. The 30-year-old goalkeeper sustained the problem during Friday’s pre-season friendly against Olympique Lyon, which the German club lost 2-0.
Medical examinations have since confirmed that an operation will not be necessary. Nevertheless, the Bundesliga side expects the former Feyenoord captain to face an extended spell on the sidelines as he recovers from the knock picked up during the fixture.
Untimely setback for summer recruit
The injury comes at a particularly frustrating moment for both player and club. Wellenreuther completed his transfer from Dutch champions Feyenoord Rotterdam approximately two weeks ago, returning to German football after a nine-year spell abroad. He signed a contract running until 2029 and had been brought in specifically to become Wolfsburg’s first-choice goalkeeper.
The experienced shot-stopper had been poised to solve the club’s goalkeeping puzzle following a summer of significant upheaval. His arrival was designed to provide immediate stability between the posts, with the club viewing the 30-year-old as the ideal candidate to assume the starting role after his successful stint in the Netherlands.
Selection headache looms
Wolfsburg now face a potential crisis between the posts as they approach the start of competitive action. Marius Müller has already departed for Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen, while former number one Kamil Grabara is also expected to leave the Volkswagen Arena. Wellenreuther’s absence leaves the coaching staff with limited experienced options for the opening weeks of the campaign.
With the Bundesliga season drawing closer, the club must now reassess their goalkeeping plans and may need to turn to younger squad members or accelerate recruitment to cover the period of his rehabilitation.