Bundesliga: Debut under pressure: Seimen is now number one in the VfB goal

If Dennis Seimen had been allowed to choose a time for his delayed debut in the Bundesliga, it would probably have been this. After a long wait, the VfB Stuttgart goalkeeping talent will be between the posts in the game against SC Paderborn on Saturday (3:30 p.m./Sky). A new era is dawning. There, where the 20-year-old has recently made such a big leap in development. And where VfB now wants to gain new momentum after its messed up start to the season.

Three defeats in four games

“We want to get started now,” said coach Sebastian Hoeneß before the game at East Westphalia. “We want to step on the gas.” After three defeats in the first four league games, Stuttgart needed that. Sure: The program was tough, including a trip to FC Bayern Munich (1:5) and against Borussia Dortmund (0:1). Nevertheless, the coach “would have liked to come out with more points. I also believe that it would have been possible."

The next part of the season now begins in Paderborn. A groundbreaking one, as it is the first of nine competitive games in 29 days for VfB. If the transition into the wet and cold season doesn't become too uncomfortable, the cup finalist from the previous season can't lose to the newly promoted team.

Promotional hero returns in a new role

Speaking of newcomers: Seimen, Stuttgart's great hope for the future, played a significant role in Paderborn's return to the upper house. After his successful loan and the relegation win against VfL Wolfsburg, the young goalkeeper was duly celebrated by the SCP fans in the spring.

Now he is returning - as Stuttgart number one. VfB coach Hoeneß explained again that this status did not change during Seimen's forced break. Fabian Bredlow did a “great job” as deputy and will continue to be deployed. Especially since Seimen's load should be controlled. “I don’t want to talk about job sharing,” said Hoeneß. Bredlow is likely to sit on the bench more often again.

Also Swiss Jaquez about to return

So Seimen is the focus of his debut. The keeper has recovered from the muscle injury he suffered in his thigh in July. He made his comeback a week ago in the test against Greuther Fürth (5-0). But now things are getting really serious. Bundesliga, Champions League, Cup. VfB will have to stretch. And it may not be so easy for him to meet the public's high expectations of him straight away.

And another return is imminent: Stuttgart's central defender Luca Jaquez could also be part of the squad again in Paderborn, according to Hoeneß. The Swiss World Cup participant has not yet been available to VfB this season due to injury. The 23-year-old has been back in team training for a few days, the coach reported. Defensive reinforcements can't hurt VfB, who have already conceded nine goals in the league. Not even the young Seimen. Under pressure on his debut.