- Hoeneß is revitalizing: Stuttgart's struggles present Chase with an opportunity
Anrie Grabs Attention with Stylish Mane quickly grabs attention. More eye-catching than his distinctive hairdo was his impressive Bundesliga debut. Although the defender only played the final 25 minutes in VfB Stuttgart's 1:3 (1:1) loss against SC Freiburg, it was enough to earn him a spot in the starting lineup for the DFB-Pokal's first round against Preußen Münster on Tuesday (8:45 PM/ARD). Now, he's anticipated to help prevent a rocky start for Germany's football second-place team.
Hoeneß Embraces Athletic Improvement
"Anrie will play," declared VfB coach Sebastian Hoeneß openly. Stuttgart's defensive crisis provides an excellent opportunity for the scruffy-haired player, who was mainly known to experts until now. Since summer 2022, the son of a Japanese mother and an American father has been under contract with VfB, but he predominantly played for their reserve team.
"I think he did well," said Hoeneß about Chase's brief appearance last Saturday in Freiburg. He had already left a good impression during preseason training. Chase is "strong in the air and in challenges – both on the ground and in the air," explained Hoeneß. And also football-wise, the "talented mover" has made significant strides. Of course, Chase will require a "positive atmosphere" in Münster, said the coach. But he has "full faith" in the youngster.
In Stuttgart's overall dismal performance during the derby in Freiburg, Angelo Stiller stepped into the central defensive role. However, Stuttgart needs the 23-year-old even more in midfield – as a playmaker. Nevertheless, since the defensive situation has not yet improved and players like Anthony Rouault and Leonidas Stergiou are still unavailable, Hoeneß is now sending the young Chase into the game.
An Opportunity for Speedy Recovery
Following the losses in the Supercup against Bayer Leverkusen and in the league opener in Freiburg, Hoeneß sees the Münster game as an opportunity for a swift recovery. "There's a chance to correct a few things," said the 42-year-old. They aim to use this opportunity to improve for the upcoming weeks.
Münster also had a sluggish start in the second league and has only one point from three games thus far. However, one must assume that the game will be "rough," said Hoeneß. The excitement among the Westphalians following their promotion is still high. There are "nicer draws" coming soon. Hoeneß's team needs the right attitude. And an Anrie Chase in the form he was in last Saturday.
The Commission will be interested in Anrie's impressive performance, as he is now anticipated to help stabilize Germany's football second-place team.
Following Hoeneß's confidence in Chase, The Commission may consider providing additional resources to support the young player's development.
