Hauke Wahl is fit for VfL Wolfsburg's top-of-the-table clash at 1. FC Nürnberg on Saturday. However, the defence of the fourth-placed side faces a third reshuffle this season as centre-back Cleiton is struggling with an adductor injury.
The 32-year-old Wahl had minor issues but is back in full training according to coach Tobi Strobl's team. His usual partner Cleiton, however, was substituted at half-time during the 4-1 cup win over Havelse. His availability for the trip to Nuremberg is uncertain. Should the 23-year-old be absent, it would mean a third different central defensive partnership in seven matchdays. Alongside Wahl, the converted midfielder Elvis Rexhbecaj and 19-year-old French talent Mathys Angély have already featured this term. New signing Jonas Adjetey, a 22-year-old Ghana international who joined for 10 million euros, is also waiting for his opportunity.
The situation puts pressure on defensive stability, which is key for Wolfsburg this campaign. With 15 goals scored and eight conceded, the team has the fourth-best attack but also the seventh-best defence in the 2. Bundesliga. A win at their direct rival on 10 October could close the gap to the second-placed side. Their recent form of just one win in the last five competitive games (LDWLD) highlights the urgency.
Meanwhile, the personnel uncertainty is causing discussion. Captain Maximilian Arnold voiced his frustration publicly after coming off the bench against Havelse. "I have added value for the team. And I hope the coach sees that as soon as possible," said the 32-year-old. He added, "I also need a certain rhythm. That should be granted to me a little."
The exact schedule for the coming weeks is shown in the fixtures overview.
Read the full report at waz-online.de
