VfB Stuttgart’s Pascal Stenzel on Facing Childhood Club Arminia Bielefeld in DFB Pokal Final
VfB Stuttgart’s right-back Pascal Stenzel is set to face his childhood club Arminia Bielefeld in the DFB Pokal final, a prospect that has him relishing the opportunity to make history. In an interview with Stuttgarter Zeitung, Stenzel discussed his emotions ahead of the big game and his journey to this point.
Growing up in Rödinghausen-Bruchmühlen, Stenzel revealed that the Arminia Bielefeld was always the biggest club in the region, and he has fond memories of watching them play as a child. “The Arminia is at our place in the region simply the biggest club,” he said. “As I was a child, I have positive memories of this time, and I used to watch them play at the Schüco-Arena.”
Stenzel’s connection to Arminia Bielefeld runs deep, having joined the club as a nine-year-old and playing for them until 2011. He recalled the excitement of attending matches at the Schüco-Arena, where he witnessed memorable performances from players like Matthias Hain, Fatmir Vata, and Rüdiger Kauf.
A Childhood Dream Turned Reality
The prospect of facing Arminia Bielefeld in the DFB Pokal final is a dream come true for Stenzel, who described it as “a very beautiful story.” While he acknowledged that it’s a special occasion, he emphasized that his focus is on the game and not on personal achievements.
“I have already said it several times: a victory in my first Pokalfinale against the club where everything started – that would be the perfect career ending,” Stenzel said. However, he quickly added that he is not contemplating retirement and is committed to helping VfB Stuttgart achieve success.
Stenzel also discussed the team’s recent performances, which have been inconsistent. After a difficult phase with six consecutive home losses, VfB Stuttgart has managed to regain momentum. Stenzel emphasized that the team has learned from its mistakes and is now focused on delivering a strong performance against Arminia Bielefeld.
The right-back also spoke about his personal journey, having struggled to regain his place in the starting lineup. He credited his hard work and dedication for earning the trust of the coach and his teammates.
“Football God” Stenzel
VfB Stuttgart fans have affectionately dubbed Stenzel the “Fußballgott” (Football God), a nickname that has stuck. While he takes it as a compliment, he also acknowledged that it’s a humorous gesture from the fans.
“I see it as a recognition of my loyalty to the club and my contribution to the team, even when I’m not playing,” Stenzel said. “And I think I’m not a bad footballer either.”
Contract Situation and Future Plans
Stenzel’s contract with VfB Stuttgart runs until 2026, and he expressed his desire to extend his stay at the club. He praised the team’s atmosphere and his relationship with the coach, adding that his family feels at home in Stuttgart.
While there are no immediate plans for a contract extension, Stenzel emphasized that he is committed to VfB Stuttgart and is looking forward to discussing his future with the club after the DFB Pokal final.
In conclusion, Pascal Stenzel is relishing the opportunity to face his childhood club Arminia Bielefeld in the DFB Pokal final. With his commitment to VfB Stuttgart and his drive to achieve success, Stenzel is set to play a crucial role in the team’s quest for the title. As he said, “The club and its fans deserve to win a title, and I want to be part of it.”
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