Dan-Axel Zagadou injury hits VfB Stuttgart ahead of Europa League match

The club confirmed that the centre-back, who has endured a long run of fitness problems, will be sidelined for an extended spell.

Head coach Sebastian Hoeness described the latest issue as a "significant muscle injury" and admitted the timing has been difficult for both the team and the player. "We were at the point where we felt he was coming back strong. This hit us hard,"

Hoeness has said, reflecting growing frustration as Stuttgart continue to lose key individuals.

Zagadou, who previously missed large parts of last season with knee and muscle setbacks, had been working his way back into contention before the latest blow. Stuttgart have not given a clear timeframe for his return, but medical staff expect the defender to be unavailable for several weeks.

The injury adds to Stuttgart's selection problems ahead of Thursday's Europa League match against Go Ahead Eagles. Forward Tiago Tomas will also miss the trip with a muscle issue, while long-term absentee Ermedin Demirovic remains out of action.

Stuttgart, who are aiming to build on their strong Bundesliga form this season, now face a tricky period with key squad members on the sidelines. Hoeness insisted the squad must adapt quickly, adding that the team "have to find solutions" as they prepare for a demanding run of fixtures.