VfB Stuttgart are in genuine early-season trouble. Three defeats from four Bundesliga games have left them 15th in the table with just three points, and the mood around the club reflects a team that has not yet found its footing. The latest setback came at home against Borussia Dortmund, where a 1-0 defeat extended a run of poor results that few expected from a Champions League participant.

At the centre of the concern is captain Deniz Undav. The striker who scored 25 goals last season has zero Bundesliga goals and zero assists through four matchdays. Undav spoke openly after the Dortmund loss, admitting he feels too deep on the pitch and has had just two chances across four games. His Achilles problems have affected his fitness, and Juergen Klopp left him out of his first Germany squad entirely, citing form and physical condition. Undav acknowledged the situation directly: he must prove himself to yet another national team coach.

Midfielder Angelo Stiller adds to the injury concerns. He was forced off in the defeat at Hoffenheim the previous week, though the club confirmed he suffered only a bruise rather than serious damage. Stuttgart also face reported interest in PAOK midfielder Christos Zafeiris, with the club among three Bundesliga sides monitoring him ahead of the winter window. A friendly against Greuther Fuerth on October 1 offers a chance to rebuild confidence before competitive action resumes.