VfB Stuttgart head coach Sebastian Hoeneß has angrily dismissed reports claiming he wants to sell striker Ermedin Demirović this summer, labelling such speculation baseless following his side’s 5-0 pre-season friendly victory over FSV Hollenbach.
Coach denies transfer speculation
The 44-year-old reacted strongly to media suggestions that he favoured cashing in on the Bosnia and Herzegovina international, insisting his priority is retaining quality players at the Mercedes-Benz Arena.
“I was irritated and, honestly, also annoyed about some of what was discussed in the media. My goal is always to have the best players at Stuttgart,” Hoeneß stated after the match.
Demirović was absent from the comfortable victory alongside other World Cup participants, but the coach’s firm comments suggest the 26-year-old remains central to his plans for the upcoming campaign.
Attacking flair in friendly rout
Stuttgart enjoyed a straightforward workout against the sixth-tier amateurs as they continued their preparations for the new Bundesliga season. Portugal forward Tiago Tomas opened the scoring before Germany international Chris Führich doubled the advantage prior to the interval.
Fabian Bredlow deputised in goal for the injured Dennis Seimen and produced a notable save during his appearance, while summer signing Grischa Prömel completed the first 45 minutes as he builds match sharpness.
After half-time, left-back Maximilian Mittelstädt added his name to the scoresheet, with youngsters Jovan Milosevic and Nikolas Nartey also netting to complete the rout.
Squad preparations continue
The comprehensive victory offers Hoeneß welcome momentum as he awaits the return of his international stars. The absence of Demirović and fellow World Cup participants had fuelled speculation about an imminent departure for the striker, but the coach’s clarification indicates no active push to sell.
Stuttgart will continue their pre-season schedule as they look to build on last term’s performances, with the squad gradually returning to full strength ahead of the competitive restart.