EM 2024 - Slip-up at press conference: Rudi Völler reveals Anton transfer
Multiple media outlets have recently agreed that Waldemar Anton is on the verge of joining Borussia Dortmund. The defender of VfB Stuttgart is reportedly set to make this decision, opting for Dortmund's offer over those of other top clubs, including Bayer Leverkusen, the reigning champions.
However, neither club has officially announced the transfer yet. This caused confusion during the DFB press conference when sporting director Rudi Voeller spoke about the personnel situation in the German defense and mentioned Anton. "I don't know how many clubs were interested. My old club Bayer Leverkusen would have liked him as well. In the end, he decided on Dortmund," Voeller said. This comment left the assembled journalists in awe.
EM 2024: Rudi Voeller rows back once again
Whether Voeller truly knows more than what's officially been disclosed remains to be seen. Voeller quickly rowed back when questioned by DFB press spokesperson Franziska Wülle. He had read in the paper that Anton was going to Dortmund: "I didn't want to announce anything here. Let's see if I'm right or not." Nonetheless, the transfer of Anton became even more likely due to Voeller's comment.
The 28-year-old was one of the key players for Stuttgart's successful season, which ended in a surprising second place. He earned his national team debut in March and was nominated for the EM in his home country. In the Round of 16 against Denmark, the hour of interior defender Anton could strike: Tah is missing due to a yellow card suspension, and Rüdiger is at risk of a tear. The match takes place in Dortmund – possibly at Anton's new workplace.
- Despite Rudi Völler's initial comments, the transfer of VfB Stuttgart's defender Waldemar Anton to Borussia Dortmund has not been officially confirmed.
- If the transfer materializes, Anton would be leaving Stuttgart for Dortmund, choosing the latter over offers from other top clubs like Bayer Leverkusen, the defending champions.
- If Anton joins Borussia Dortmund as speculated, it could potentially put him in a unique situation, as the Emma 2024 match against Denmark, for which he was nominated, will be held in Dortmund.
- Despite Rudi Völler's comment about Anton's potential move to Dortmund, his new workplace could still be in Stuttgart until the transfer is officially announced.
