Sebastian Hoeneß Linked to Real Madrid: Could VfB Stuttgart Face a Summer Challenge?

Real Madrid is reportedly considering a move for VfB Stuttgart’s successful coach, Sebastian Hoeneß.

According to Sport Bild, Hoeneß is among the candidates Real is discussing as a potential successor to current coach Alvaro Arbeloa for the summer. Arbeloa, who took over in mid-January after Xabi Alonso’s dismissal, is facing a trophyless season. Although his contract runs until 2027, a departure after this season is becoming increasingly likely, especially after the Champions League quarter-final exit against Bayern Munich. The Athletic recently described an exit for Arbeloa in the summer as ‘very probable’.

Real Madrid appears to be looking at Hoeneß to help build a new successful team. Sport Bild reports that the Spanish giants are closely evaluating the 43-year-old German. His bold playing style and his ability to develop a functional team without relying on signing established stars are said to have impressed Real’s decision-makers.

Could Real Madrid Sign Sebastian Hoeneß from VfB Stuttgart?

However, there has reportedly been no concrete offer from Madrid to Hoeneß yet. The nephew of Bayern Munich patron Uli Hoeneß is under contract with VfB until 2028, with no release clause included in his contract. Therefore, Real would have to negotiate a transfer fee with Stuttgart if they decide to pursue him seriously.

Hoeneß took over VfB in the spring of 2023 when the team was in a precarious relegation battle, ultimately securing survival through the playoffs. The following season, he led Stuttgart to a runner-up finish and qualification for the Champions League, establishing the Swabians as contenders for European competition in subsequent seasons. Last year, they also won the DFB-Pokal, and this season they are again dreaming of silverware, facing SC Freiburg in the semi-finals on Thursday. Currently fourth in the league, Hoeneß and his team are aiming for another Champions League qualification.

Due to his outstanding work in Stuttgart, Hoeneß has been repeatedly linked with major clubs in recent years. Manchester United and Chelsea, among others, were previously reported as interested. However, at the end of March 2025, Hoeneß prematurely extended his contract by another year until 2028. ‘When I joined VfB almost two years ago, the sporting situation was challenging at 18th place. Nevertheless, the move to VfB felt right back then. And extending the contract feels just as right now,’ Hoeneß stated at the time.

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