Fabian Reese has deactivated his Instagram profile, which had over 100,000 followers. The 28-year-old VfL Wolfsburg attacker is reacting to sustained hostility and abuse following his controversial summer transfer from Hertha BSC. The situation is clearly weighing on the player. After an away match at Karlsruher SC in late August, Reese said, "It hurts me a lot, it injures me. I take it home with me too." The boos follow him not only in games against his former club but also at other away fixtures in the 2. Bundesliga. Even opposing Energie Cottbus coach Claus-Dieter Wollitz criticised his own fans for it in early September. "What's that supposed to be? I find it impossible. Why does our club or our fans have to boo this player?" Wollitz said.
From Fan Favourite to Hate
Reese had become a fan favourite over three years in Berlin. He signed two contract extensions, played 91 competitive games, scoring 35 goals and providing 31 assists. Together with his fiancée Johanna Grünewald, he organised fan meetings, appeared at flea markets and founded a charity. This close-to-the-people presence has now given way to a clear distancing. Grünewald, whose account is still active, wrote about the difficult recent days and that she underestimated "how deeply words can hurt". The club reportedly advised Reese to reduce his social media activity to focus better on football. A club spokesperson confirmed that the player is being supported in this difficult phase and the deactivation step was taken at Reese's own request.
Focus on Football
Sportingly, things are going solidly for Wolfsburg at the moment. The team coached by Ralph Hasenhüttl sits fifth in the 2. Bundesliga with 12 points after seven matchdays. Their recent form shows two wins, two draws and one defeat from the last five games. Reese was not among the scorers in the crazy 4-4 draw at 1. FC Nürnberg on October 10th, but he did score in the 4-1 home win against Havelse a week earlier. Coach Hasenhüttl commented on the situation: "We talk a lot with Fabian. He is a professional player and will find his way. He has the team's full support." The full overview of the squad and upcoming fixtures can be found on our squad and fixtures pages.
The next outing is on Saturday, October 17th. Then VfL Wolfsburg hosts third-placed 1. FC Heidenheim at the Volkswagen Arena. For Reese, it is another chance to answer on the pitch. Hasenhüttl announced he would continue to rely on the attacking player: "Fabian has our full backing. He is an important part of the team."
Read the full report at t-online.de
VfL Wolfsburg confirmed on Friday that Fabian Reese took the step at his own request. A club spokesman said they are supporting the player during this difficult period. The club advised Reese to reduce his social media activity to focus better on football. On the pitch, Wolfsburg are fifth with 12 points. The next match is on Saturday, October 17, against 1. FC Heidenheim.
