Broken Hearts & Shattered Dreams...[Completed]

[Tubey84]

ROFL!!! Don't go on holiday in Qatar then Mr. Colella!

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Match Day:

Karlsruhe snatch a home draw against Stuttgart with one shot on goal while Stuttgart have 24 attempts on goal!

10th April 2010

Karlsruhe 1 - Stuttgart 1

Gomez (83)

Freis (90)

Wildparkstadion, Karlsruhe

Attendance : 29660

Weather : Breezy, Shower; 7C

Karlsruhe start this match in a very defensive 4-5-1 formation allowing Stuttgart to attack and put on the pressure.

The game starts in a mid-field stale-mate but at thee 25th minute Khedira hits the cross bar from a long range shot.

27th minute, Stuttgart begin to get a lot of chances. Firstly Marquinhos should have done better when he was one on one with the Karlsruhe goalkeeper Miller, but his shot is weak and the keeper saves comfortable.

28th minute, Gomez gets an inch in the penalty area and turns, his powerful shot is brilliantly saved by Miller.

31st minute, 60 yard pass by Marquinhos, sees Gomez run one on one with the keeper, but again Stuttgart miss a clear cut chance to take the lead.

38th minute, a powerful strike from range by Jelly is parried by Miller, but Gomez and Marica both react too slowly to pounce on the rebound.

Second half, Karlsruhe continue to put people back and rely on the counter attack, however they are not even pushing past half way.

Stuttgart, given the chance will eventually take the lead.

54th minute, a pass by Buonanotte finds Jelly whos header hits the cross-bar. Stuttgart ever so close to a goal.

Karlsruhe begin to tire, and Stuttgart now have a lot more space to play with. Buonanotte and Marquinhos are moving more into the channels and causing major problems for the Karlsruhe defence.

76th Minute, Marica comes close with a glancing header from substitute Doumeng's corner, but the ball goes a whisker wide

81st minute and FINALLY a goal for Stuttgart. Brilliant work on the right wing by Marquinhos to create space for a cross. The ball is floated in perfectly for a Gomez header right on the 6 yard box. Deserved lead for Stuttgart.

85th minute, substitute Boka comes close but a brilliant save by Miller denies him.

90th minute, Karlsruhe's first shot on goal goes miserable wide, but it inadvertantly becomes a brilliant through ball and Freis says thank you very much and taps in the equaliser.

Some Stuttgart fans are seen in tears.

The game ends 1-1.

In other games,

Schalke beat Nurnberg 2-0.

Bayern fail to beat lowly Hannover at home 0-0

[Tubey84]

Gutted Need some sort of divine grace to see Schalke slump to win it now :@

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Match Day:

Stuttgart win under difficult weather conditions.

17th April 2010

Stuttgart 2 - Rostock 0

Gomez (32)

Marica (43)

Mercedes-Benz Arena, Stuttgart.

Attendance : 51547

Weather : Gale, Shower 2C

A match which was constantly on the verge of being called off due to bad weather.

2nd places Stuttgart facing 17th placed Rostock.

Both sides struggle for the most part of the first half due to horrid conditions.

Neither side is able to create concrete chances and Rostock revert to hoofing the ball away at every opportunity.

The Stuttgart players are playing nervously, knowing they are forced to get a result today.

32nd minute, a brilliant play from Hitzlsperger saw Gomez released into the penalty area. The player controlled well, then slotted the ball home.

A sign of relief could be heard around the stadium as Stuttgart were finally ahead.

43rd minute, the Bundesliga top scorer is left all alone by the Rostock defence. Marica, runs 30 yards and passes the ball into the back of the net for his 28th goal of the campaign and his 21st in the Bundesliga.

Half time 2-0.

67th minute, a rocket from "The Hammer", Hitzlsperger swerves wickedly in the wind, striking the post. Half the stadium holding their heads in their hands sporting a grin from ear to ear. A insanely powerful strike from the club captain.

Much of the remainder of the match is spent in the heart of midfield with the weather dictating most of the play.

The match eventually ends 2-0 to Stuttgart.

Other Games :

Bochum 0 - Schalke 2

Nurnberg 0 - Bayern Munich 1

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Title decider??

You are once again nervous about football, not the nerves that make you feel sick about the sport, but those wonderful butterflies that flutter about. These are nerves of anticipation and excitement about a huge game in which you now know, you have nothing to lose.

It has been a great season and you are a mere 3 points from Schalke and 2 points ahead of Bayern Munich.

This year you have already upset the German Giants away from home and you know that you might just do the same to Schalke and you want your team to know that IT IS POSSIBLE.

Schalke however have made such a good side that if you were to step in today as their manager, you probably wouldn't have to make a signing.

Then again, the same could be said about your Stuttgart.

Then in a moment of sporting good-will you remember that Schalke have not won a Bundesliga title since 1958 and that their fans deserve a break.

You would be gutted to see Bayern win this title, as they definately have not warranted it.

Only time will tell....who will win between you, Schalke and Bayern...

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Match Day:

Leverkusen defeat Stuttgart and advance to the DFB-Pokal Final

Leverkusen 2 - Stuttgart 1

Marica (11)

Rofles (18)

Helmes (27)

21st April 2010

Bayarena, Leverkusen

Attendance :29987

Weather : Wet 2C

Stuttgart couldn't have made a better start to the match when at the 11th minute, a lovely touch from Marquinhos finds it's way to Marica. The Romanian star, turns his man and threads his shot past the keeper.

18th minute and Bayern Munich bound Rofles shoots from distance to make the score 1-1. This player has a bright future ahead of him and Leverkusen will be sad to see him go.

The scores now are locked at one a piece.

25th minute and Leverkusen should have taken the lead, but Vidal heads wide from a good position.

27th minute and Helmes makes the score 2-1, taking his chance brilliantly from a Rofles pass.

Half time.

The second half was all Stuttgart with numerous chances falling to Marica, Marquinhos and Gomez.

77th minute, a pile-driver from Hitzlsperger goes agonizingly wide.

90th minute, even Jens Lehmann joins the attack on a corner, but Hitzlspeger hits the ball too far.

All over and Leverkusen is through to the final.

A good effort by Stuttgart in this competition.

The final will see Leverkusen play Schalke.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Match Day:

Schalke lucky to draw with Stuttgart

Schalke 2 - Stuttgart 2

Marica (22, 60)

Engelaar (54)

Rafinha (77)

24th April 2010

VELTINS-Arena, Gelsenkirchen

Attendance :60549

Weather : Breezy, Downpour 17C

Probably the biggest game of the Bundesliga season.

1st place Schalke, who is on an 8 match winning streak in the Bundesliga, facing off with Stuttgart who are 3 points behind in 2nd place.

This began, as expected, a caget affair with both sides taking a feel for eachother before launching into attacks.

22nd minute, a quick free kick from Thomas Hitzlsperger sees the ball arrive to Marica. The Romanian turned his marker and dribbled another before shooting hard and low. The ball took a small deflection which displaced the keeper and it was 1-0 for Stuttgart.

This was Marica's 30th goal of the season.

Schalke playing nervously and it shows with cards to Jones, Kuranyi and Rafinha.

Stuttgart are playing brilliantly and continue to hold possesion.

Second half, a brilliant run from Marica from inside his own half. He makes his way into the penalty area but is tackled at the last moment by Ernst who clears, only to hit his own player Pander in the back, corner for Stuttgart in bizzare fashion.

Schalke are really struggling to control Marica today.

48th minute, a double strike from Gomez but both attempts, taken in quick succession do not beat Nuer in goal.

54th minute, break-away counter attack from Schalke, Streit passes to an unmarked Engelaar to make it 1-1, totally against the run of play.

60th minute, a Buonanotte through pass, sees Marica all alone in the penalty area. The flag stays down as defenders remain motionless. Marica slots the ball home and it's 2-1 Stuttgart, however there are endless protests from Schalke.

66th minute, cross from Pander and a brilliant first time volley from Rafinha, 2-2 for Schalke.

We are having a classic game on our hands.

77th minute a shot from Rafinha is wonderfully tipped over the bar by Lehmman.

Both sides limited eachother to minimal chances and the match ended in a 2-2 draw.

In other results, Bayern defeated Bochum 2-0 and move to 2nd spot in the Bundesliga.

[Tubey84]

Bahhh! That was the chance - a "must win" game with Bayern now.

[M0nk3yFac3]

yeh, watch out. nice read Lavezzi

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Match Day:

Bayern end Stuttgart dreams.

30th April 2010

Stuttgart 2 - Bayern Munich 3

Gomez (34)

Borowski (53,81)

Toni (62)

Khedira (64)

Mercedes-Benz Arena, Stuttgart.

Attendance :55884

Weather : Dry, Cold 1C

Back to back difficult games for Stuttgart after their unlucky 2-2 draw at Schalke.

Today they face 2nd placed Bayern Munich, a game they must win to stay in contention for the title race.

22nd minute, the first real chance of the game. Jelly throws the ball long to Marquinhos who rides through the Bayern challenges and shoots with power. The ball only going a whisker wide of the goal.

24th minute, pass by Gomez to Marica. Marica lets a volley go from 30 yards - a rare long shot from the Romanian - the ball goes a few yards wide.

34th minute, brilliant play by Hitzlsperger to open up the Bayern defence. Marquinhos runs from the right and places a beautifully weighted cross into the area for Gomez, who heads home a powerful strike.

The crowd erupts as Stuttgart take a deserved lead!

37th minute, Lahm is dazed by a flurry of tricks by Marquinhos. The brazilian wonderkid threads a pass into the box for Marica who hits it just wide of the target. The fans applaud the move.

Referee calls for half time, Stuttgart have been on form!

Second half, 47th minute, cross from Marica is met by a powerful header from Gomez, Rensing saves brilliantly.

52nd minute, Luca Toni's shot is parried by Lehmann and Borowski slides home the equaliser.

Bayern look to be a different side after the break.

62nd minute and Luca Toni finds himself free in the Stuttgart box, and the Italian bomber makes it 2-1 for Bayern.

64th minute, corner for Stuttgart, ball cleared away by Lahm. The ball arrives to Khedira, just outside the box who lets go with a fierce pile driver.

2-2 for Stuttgart!!! - the Mercedes-Benz Arena is buzzing!

73rd minute, Gomez has taken a knock and is trying to run it off.

75th minute, double substitution for Stuttgart. Doumeng on for the injured Gomez and Carlos Eduardo on for Buonanotte.

81st minute an outrageos 40 yard strike from Borowski makes it 3-2 for Bayern. A rocket of a shot that no keeper in the World would have saved.

83rd minute, comedy of errors at the back for Stuttgart as Bayern come close to making it 4-2.

88th minute, Colella storms off the pitch as he is disgusted at what he is seeing from his team

The match ends and Stuttgarts title hopes are over.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement:

Gomez season over after suffering a pulled hamstring.

Striker Mario Gomez has injured himself during the last match in which Bayern defeated Stuttgart.

The 25 year old striker pulled a hamstring and will now miss the next 3 weeks.

This means the striker will probably not feature for the rest of the Bundesliga campaign but will be fine and fit for the Germany Squad for the World Cup.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Broken hearts and shattered dreams?

...and there it is, it is now basically over. 3 games left and Schalke has the chance to extend their lead over you by 6 points.

There are fans that seemed broken hearted around the stadium as you lost to Bayern.

Many players seemed down-hearted at their dreams vanishing before their eyes, like a nice cup of cold lemonade in the hands of a dying man, stranded in the desert.

While there is a negative vibe around the group as to how things are ending, the entire team needs to take a step back and ponder the situation at hand.

You team was expected to finish mid-table this season, but has gallantly fought to the bitter end, trying to win the Bundesliga.

This has been a WONDERFUL season, something that everyone should be proud of.

Now you need to try and win the last remaining games to ensure you make it to the Champions League, the most prestigious cup known to club football.

There still is a mathematical chance that you can win the title, but there is little chance that both Bayern and Schalke will slip up at this stage...

...as long as there is life, there is hope...

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement :

5th May 2010

Hoffenheim stun Schalke 1-0.

A Demba Ba strike on the 12th minute mark was enough to down Schalke 1-0 this evening.

This has opened the title race wide open with Bayern Munich now favourites to life the title.

Bundesliga Standings 2009/2010 season.

Round 31

| Pos   | Inf   | Team           |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   |       | FC Bayern      |       | 31    | 20    | 6     | 5     | 57    | 24    | +33   | 66    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |       | Schalke        |       | 31    | 20    | 6     | 5     | 53    | 24    | +29   | 66    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| [b]3rd   |       | Stuttgart      |       | 31    | 19    | 6     | 6     | 67    | 37    | +30   | 63[/b]    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |       | HSV            |       | 31    | 17    | 6     | 8     | 57    | 35    | +22   | 57    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |       | Werder Bremen  |       | 31    | 15    | 10    | 6     | 54    | 30    | +24   | 55    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |       | Dortmund       |       | 31    | 15    | 9     | 7     | 43    | 24    | +19   | 54    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |       | Leverkusen     |       | 31    | 12    | 11    | 8     | 42    | 34    | +8    | 47    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |       | Karlsruhe      |       | 31    | 11    | 10    | 10    | 39    | 33    | +6    | 43    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |       | Frankfurt      |       | 31    | 10    | 12    | 9     | 39    | 37    | +2    | 42    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |       | Hertha BSC     |       | 31    | 9     | 10    | 12    | 42    | 50    | -8    | 37    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |       | Gladbach       |       | 31    | 7     | 12    | 12    | 31    | 44    | -13   | 33    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |       | Nürnberg       |       | 31    | 7     | 12    | 12    | 19    | 35    | -16   | 33    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |       | Hoffenheim     |       | 31    | 7     | 11    | 13    | 35    | 43    | -8    | 32    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |       | Wolfsburg      |       | 31    | 8     | 6     | 17    | 34    | 54    | -20   | 30    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |       | Kaiserslautern |       | 31    | 8     | 5     | 18    | 33    | 55    | -22   | 29    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |       | Hannover       |       | 31    | 5     | 11    | 15    | 18    | 49    | -31   | 26    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |       | Rostock        |       | 31    | 4     | 10    | 17    | 19    | 49    | -30   | 22    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  |       | Bochum         |       | 31    | 3     | 11    | 17    | 25    | 50    | -25   | 20    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|       |       |                |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

...a glimmer of hope...

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement :

Stuttgart ease past Gladbach with a Marquinhos Double.

Gladbach 0 - Stuttgart 2

Marquinhos (81,83)

8th May 2010

Borussia-Park, Monchengladbach

Attendance :40749

Weather : Breezy, Drizzle 14C

Stuttgart have made no less than four changes to their starting line up for this match against Gladbach.

Gomez and Marquinhos are out injured, so Doumeng and Eduardo come in. Carlos Eduardo is peferred to Buonanotte and Bikey is preferred to Jelly, with Boularouz playing on the left hand side.

It is Nurnberg bound Eduardo who comes close in the 20th minute, his diving header from a Doumeng cross strikes the up-right.

24th minute, Gladbach come close with Ndleng, whos shot fools half the crowd, but the ball had actually hit the side netting.

30th minute Oberman has a goal ruled out for offside. No protests from the players.

Half time.

54th minute, Tasci finds himself in the Gladbach penalty area. He shoots for goal with a powerful strike, which strikes the under-bar and lands right on the line. Hitzlsperger cannot manage to hit the rebound cleanly and a chance squandered for Stuttgart.

70th minute Marquinhos, who is carrying a slight knock and playing with injections takes the place of Eduardo who has done next to nothing up front for Stuttgart this afternoon.

81st minute, a Marica header becomes a fabuloud through ball for Marquinhos. The young winger gets to the ball before the advancing keeper and sees the ball roll into the back of the net.

1-0 for Stuttgart.

Gladbach begin to push men forward and this is creating a lot of space for the Stuttgart forwards.

83rd minute, a long ball by Bikey sees Marquinhos run through. The attacker dribbles two defenders, then rounds the keeper to make it 2-0.

Marquinhos has been sensational and to remember, he is playing with a knock.

The match ends 2-0 for Stuttgart.

In other games, Schalke defeat Karlsruhe 3-0.

Bayern thump Hoffenheim 3-0 with a Toni hattrick.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement :

9th May 2010

Stuttgart looking to seal Champions League Spot

Stuttgart can secure a Champions League spot with a draw at home to Frankfurt this weekend.

The 3rd place club is currently 6 points ahead of Hamburg SV and while they seem to have run out of steam to claim the Bundesliga title, the predicted mid-table finishers have done well to almost secure a spot in the worlds most prestigious club tournament.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement:

Stuttgart faulter at home to Frankfurt and may miss out on the Champions League.

15th May 2010

Stuttgart 1 - Frankfurt 2

Marquinhos (46)

Khedira (57 OG)

Bellaid (85)

Mercedes-Benz Arena, Stuttgart.

Attendance : 55854

Weather : Drizzle 22C

An important game for Stuttgart as a win today will allow the club to participate in the early rounds of the Champions League.

Marquinhos starts up front and has recovered from his thigh strain. Mario Gomez is fit enough to make it on the bench.

Jelly is back in the starting line up after being left out due to poor form. Doumeng starts on the right side of midfield.

Lehmann also starts this match after some recent poor form. Rumours have also surfaced that the 40 year old keeper may play as a backup next season.

Match starts and it is a very dull and boring affair.

Stuttgart only need a draw to secure a Champions League spot and it shows.

Neither side seem interested in playing attractive football.

40th minute and we have our first shot of the game. Vincenzo Italiano takes a long range shot which is securely taken by Lehmann.

In other games Bayern is 1-0 up away at Karlsruhe and Schalke is 3-1 up away to Rostock.

43rd minute, Fenin has a great chance to make it 1-0 for Frankfurt but the ball goes agonizingly wide.

Half time whistle goes and Stuttgart have not even had an attempt on goal.

The home crowd is not happy and they boo their team off the pitch.

Second half, Marica to Marquinhos, Marquinhos back heel to Hitzlsperger, Hitzslerger one two with Marica. Hitzlsperger threads it for Marquinhos who side foots the ball home, in off the post.

A brilliant goal from Stuttgart who seem to have awaken from their slumber after a drubbing from manager Colella at half time.

57th minute, a Meier shot is wickedly deflected by Sami Khedira who sadly for Stuttgart, puts it into his own net.

85th minute, long ball into the area by Frankfurt and a glancing header by Bellaid. Frankfurt take the lead and the season is just ending horribly for Stuttgart.

Their mind is no longer focused on this season.

HSV meanwhile has put 5 goals past Hannover, and are only 3 points off Stuttgart and can still take a champions league spot.

Bayern is up 3-0 and Schalke is 4-1 up.

The match ends 2-1 home loss for Stuttgart.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

It's a game of numbers...

You are at the last game of the season and there is still work to be done.

The top of the ladder is so close this season in the Bundesliga.

Schalke and Bayern are on 72 points each and only seperated by goal difference. Bayern Munich, on +39 goal difference have a +4 goal average better than Schalke and if both sides are to win, Schalke would have to score a barrage of goals to win the title.

Your Stuttgart in 3rd place with 66 points, closely followed by HSV on 63 who are finishing their season strongly. You have a goal difference of +31, while HSV is on 28.

A draw will be enough to see you into the Champions League, while if you lose - it will come down to how many goals HSV score and importantly how many you conceed.

You face Leverkusen away in your last game, while HSV are at home to relegared Rostock.

Last season, 66 points would have been enough to achieve a comfortable runners up spot in the league.

Football.....it's all about numbers.

Bundesliga Standings 2009/2010 season.

Round 33.

| Pos   | Inf   | Team           |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   |       | FC Bayern      |       | 33    | 22    | 6     | 5     | 63    | 24    | +39   | 72    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |       | Schalke        |       | 33    | 22    | 6     | 5     | 60    | 25    | +35   | 72    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|[b] 3rd   |       | Stuttgart      |       | 33    | 20    | 6     | 7     | 70    | 39    | +31   | 66    [/b]| 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |       | HSV            |       | 33    | 19    | 6     | 8     | 64    | 36    | +28   | 63    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |       | Werder Bremen  |       | 33    | 16    | 10    | 7     | 59    | 33    | +26   | 58    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |       | Dortmund       |       | 33    | 16    | 9     | 8     | 45    | 26    | +19   | 57    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |       | Leverkusen     |       | 33    | 13    | 11    | 9     | 47    | 37    | +10   | 50    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |       | Frankfurt      |       | 33    | 12    | 12    | 9     | 42    | 38    | +4    | 48    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |       | Karlsruhe      |       | 33    | 11    | 10    | 12    | 39    | 39    | 0     | 43    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |       | Hertha BSC     |       | 33    | 10    | 10    | 13    | 45    | 54    | -9    | 40    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |       | Nürnberg       |       | 33    | 8     | 12    | 13    | 21    | 38    | -17   | 36    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |       | Hoffenheim     |       | 33    | 8     | 11    | 14    | 39    | 47    | -8    | 35    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |       | Gladbach       |       | 33    | 7     | 12    | 14    | 32    | 50    | -18   | 33    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |       | Wolfsburg      |       | 33    | 9     | 6     | 18    | 37    | 57    | -20   | 33    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |       | Kaiserslautern |       | 33    | 9     | 5     | 19    | 36    | 58    | -22   | 32    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  | Pl    | Hannover       |       | 33    | 5     | 11    | 17    | 20    | 57    | -37   | 26    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  | Pl    | Bochum         |       | 33    | 4     | 11    | 18    | 28    | 53    | -25   | 23    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  | R     | Rostock        |       | 33    | 4     | 10    | 19    | 20    | 56    | -36   | 22    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|       |       |                |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

[Tubey84]

Big, big game. I think Hamburg are nailed on to beat Rostock, so you need a point.

Fingers crossed for you!

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Match Day:

Stuttgart show heroics as they come back from 2-0 down to win and secure Champions League Football!

Leverkusen 2 - Stuttgart 3

Vidal (9)

Djakpa (35)

Marquinhos (44)

Gomez (51)

Marica (96!)

22nd May 2010

Bayarena, Leverkusen

Attendance : 26712

Weather : Wet 14 C

Jens Lehmann, Jelly and Osorio are dropped for this game with Boka, Bikey and Ulreich making their way into the starting eleven.

Germany's young sensation, 16 year old Stefano Kohler is on the bench for Stuttgart.

Mario Gomez makes a surprise return up front, having recovered from his injury one week earlier than expected. The player is not 100% fit, but his presence will be a huge lift for the club, having struggled without him for the last 3 weeks.

8th minute, Rofles through ball and Boka is caught napping. Vidal shoots low and beats Ulreich in goal. 1-0 to Leverkusen.

Stuttgart just seem to lack spirit and seem like a shadow of their former self.

Colella barks orders but Stuttgart are not listening.

A raging Colella makes two substitutions and its only the 20th minute mark.

Boka, who has been struggling is taken off and in comes Buonanotte. Jelly is also taken off and in comes Osorio. The formation has also been slightly altered.

HSV is currently 0-0 in the other match.

34th minute, a long range shot from Djakpa goes right into the top corner. Ulreich helpless against the effort, 2-0 for Leverkusen.

43rd minute, Hitzlsperger finds Buonanotte in space, and the player hoofs in a first time cross which is met by a diving Marquinhos. It is the wonderkid's 5th goal of the season, crucial for goal difference.

45th minute, hearts in mouths as a mistake from Ulreich nearly lets in Vidal. The young goal keeper seems to be playing very nervously.

50th minute, Hitzlsperger shot from just outside the box is blocked and is deflected out to the right side of the area. Marquinhos with a quick cross which is met by a back-heel flick from Gomez. 2-2 for Stuttgart!!!!!!!!!!!

55th minute, Thomas Hitzlsperger is sent off for an elbow to the face of Rofles while jumping for a high ball. A straight red for the striker, which is extreemly harsh!

Gomez is taken off, and it is that time. 16 year old Stefano Kohler makes his debut for Stuttgart. He will be taking his position in the heart of the midfield for Stuttgart.

Great things are expected from this youngster, but today is a harsh way to make a debut!

HSV is still drawing 0-0 at home to Rostock.

60th - 75th minutes end to end football with both teams showing brilliant attacking flair...

Marquinhos comes close for Stuttgart on two occasions, while at the other end, Rofles and Helmes all have great chances to score.

91st minute HSV take the lead!!! 1-0 Boateng.

Still 2-2 here at Leverkusen, Stuttgart playing extreemly cagey. A minimum of 6 minutes added on to be played due to injuries and time wasting.

96th minute, 16 YEAR OLD KOHLER STEALS THE BALL IN MIDFIELD, LONG BALL UP FIELD FOR MARICA....HE'S ALL ALONE, DRIBBLES THE KEEPER...

3-2 STUTTTGAARRRRT!!

TEN MEN STUTTGART ARE THROUGH TO THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!!

[Tubey84]

Phew ^^ Congratulations

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

2009/2010 End of Season Update

Bayern Munich are Bundesliga Champions for the 3rd year running!

Bayern secure the Bundesliga with a 2-0 win at home, while Schalke can only manage a draw at home. Both sides are through to the Champions League.

Stuttgart maintain their 3rd spot and advance to the early rounds of the Champions League.

HSV, Dortmund and Weder Bremen through to the Uefa Cup.

Bundesliga 2009/2010 season

Final Standings

| Pos   | Inf   | Team           |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
[color="Blue"]| 1st   | C     | FC Bayern      |       | 34    | 23    | 6     | 5     | 65    | 24    | +41   | 75    | [/color]
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| [color="Magenta"]2nd   |       | Schalke        |       | 34    | 22    | 7     | 5     | 61    | 26    | +35   | 73    | [/color]
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| [b]3rd   |       | Stuttgart      |       | 34    | 21    | 6     | 7     | 73    | 41    | +32   | 69    | [/b]
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| [color="magenta"]4th   |       | HSV            |       | 34    | 20    | 6     | 8     | 65    | 36    | +29   | 66    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |       | Dortmund       |       | 34    | 17    | 9     | 8     | 47    | 26    | +21   | 60    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |       | Werder Bremen  |       | 34    | 16    | 10    | 8     | 59    | 35    | +24   | 58    | [/color]
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |       | Frankfurt      |       | 34    | 13    | 12    | 9     | 44    | 38    | +6    | 51    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |       | Leverkusen     |       | 34    | 13    | 11    | 10    | 49    | 40    | +9    | 50    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |       | Karlsruhe      |       | 34    | 11    | 10    | 13    | 39    | 42    | -3    | 43    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |       | Hertha BSC     |       | 34    | 10    | 11    | 13    | 46    | 55    | -9    | 41    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |       | Gladbach       |       | 34    | 8     | 12    | 14    | 35    | 50    | -15   | 36    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |       | Nürnberg       |       | 34    | 8     | 12    | 14    | 21    | 39    | -18   | 36    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |       | Wolfsburg      |       | 34    | 10    | 6     | 18    | 40    | 59    | -19   | 36    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |       | Hoffenheim     |       | 34    | 8     | 11    | 15    | 39    | 49    | -10   | 35    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |       | Kaiserslautern |       | 34    | 10    | 5     | 19    | 39    | 58    | -19   | 35    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
[color="Red"]| 16th  | Pl    | Hannover       |       | 34    | 5     | 11    | 18    | 22    | 60    | -38   | 26    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  | R     | Bochum         |       | 34    | 4     | 11    | 19    | 28    | 56    | -28   | 23    | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  | R     | Rostock        |       | 34    | 4     | 10    | 20    | 20    | 58    | -38   | 22    | [/color]
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|       |       |                |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

[b]Bundesliga Top Scorer[/b] : [i]Ciprian Marica 24 goals[/i].
[b]Bundesliga Top Assists[/b] : [i]Miroslav Klose 15 assists[/i].

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement :

Schalke Crowned DFB-Pokal Champions

Schalke have defeated Leverkusen 2-1 in the German Cup.

Schalke will be happy that their season has ended with a domestic trophy. They had been without a domestic cup victory since 2002.

Hannover beats Duisberg in play-off final and remains in the Bundesliga!

Hannover, who played in the Uefa Cup this season, had its own final to play today as they beat Duisberg 1-0 to maintain their status as a Bundesliga outfit.

Rostock and Bochum were relegated from this year's league and Hannover was close to joining them.

1860 Munich and Koln have been promoted back to the Bundesliga.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

2009/2010 League and Cup Winners + Player Awards

Please note : Will only focus on European leagues.

League Winners :

Italy : Juventus

England : Manchester United

France : Lyon

Germany : Bayern Munich

Holland : Ajax

Scotland : Rangers

Spain : Real Madrid

Portugal : Sporting SP

Domestic Cup Winners :

Italy : Roma (Tim Cup), Inter (Super Coppa)

England : Aston Villa (FA Cup), Man Utd (Carling Cup), Man Utd (Community Shield)

France : Rennais (Coupe de France) Lyon (Coupe de la Ligue) PSG (Trophee des Champions)

Germany : Shalke(DFB Pokal)

Holland : Ajax (KNVB Beker) Feyenoord (Johan Cruijff Schaal)

Scotland : Rangers (Scottish Cup) Rangers (Co-op Cup)

Spain : Real Madrid (Copa del Rey) Real Madrid (Super Copa)

Portugal : Benfica (Taca de Portugal) Sporting SP (Carlsberg Cup) Sporting SP (Supertaca)

European Club Cup Winners :

Champions League :Barcelona 3-1 vs Man Utd ( )

Uefa Cup : Tottenham (1-0 vs AS Monaco)

Uefa Super Cup Real Madrid (4-1 vs Tottenham)

World Club Cup : Real Madrid (on PK vs Sao Paulo)

Major Player Awards

European Footballer of the Year : David Villa

FIFA World Player of the Year : Sergio Aguero

European Golden Boot David Villa (33 goals in 35 appearances) - Stuttgart's Marica is runner up (32 goals in 39 appearances)

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement :

1st June 2010

Stuttgart players win awards at the Bundesliga Awards night.

The following players were given awards overnight in Germany for the 2009/2010 season.

Thomas Hitzlsperger : German Midfielder of the Year 2009/2010

Ciprian Marica : Bundesliga Golden Boot 2009/2010

Mario Gomez : Bundesliga Bronze Boot 2009/2010

Antonio Colella : Manager of the Year - 3rd Place

Antonio Colella : Players Association Manager of the Year - 3rd Place

Bundesliga Dream-Team : Thomas Hitzlsperger and Ciprian Marica

[Wegason]

Congratulations on the Champions League spot, should help you sign some great players, keep your great ones, and help your finances!

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Thanks for the comments.

It is sad we capitulated again at the business end of the season.

I have one more season left on my contract and we will see what happens after 2011.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Vfb Stuttgart 2009/2010 Report Card

The Stuttgart Squad & Statistics

| Pkd   | Inf   | Name                | Position      | Morale    | Last 5 Games | Con   | Apps    | Gls   | Ast   | Av Rat| 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Jens Lehmann        | GK            | Good      |              | 100%  | 38      | -     | -     | 6.78  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Trv   | Sven Ulreich        | GK            | Superb    |              | 97%   | 1       | -     | -     | 6.90  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Int   | Khalid Boulahrouz   | D RLC         | Superb    |              | 91%   | 37      | -     | -     | 6.86  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Trv   | André Bikey         | D RC, DM, M C | Very Good |              | 99%   | 20 (11) | 1     | 2     | 6.84  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Jelly               | D LC, WB/M L  | Okay      |              | 82%   | 33      | 1     | 3     | 6.88  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Int   | Serdar Tasçi        | D C           | Very Good |              | 100%  | 34 (2)  | -     | 1     | 6.92  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Int   | Ricardo Osorio      | D/WB R        | Very Good |              | 81%   | 34 (1)  | 1     | 9     | 7.06  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Arthur Boka         | D/WB/M L      | Very Good |              | 95%   | 2 (8)   | -     | -     | 6.78  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Sami Khedira        | DM, M C       | Very Good |              | 100%  | 34      | 2     | 4     | 7.11  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Int   | Thomas Hitzlsperger | M LC          | Very Good |              | 82%   | 37      | 12    | 16    | 7.41  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Stefano Köhler      | M C           | Very Good |              | 86%   | 0 (2)   | -     | 1     | 6.75  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Geoffrey Doumeng    | AM RC         | Okay      |              | 97%   | 5 (17)  | 1     | 2     | 6.83  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Trv   | Marquinhos          | AM RLC, F C   | Very Good |              | 93%   | 17 (1)  | 5     | 7     | 7.18  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Diego Buonanotte    | AM LC         | Okay      |              | 72%   | 35 (3)  | 2     | 8     | 6.94  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Carlos Eduardo      | AM LC         | Good      |              | 96%   | 6 (24)  | 1     | -     | 6.85  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Yildiray Bastürk    | AM C          | Good      |              | 94%   | 0 (2)   | -     | -     | 6.80  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Jean Carioca        | AM/F C        | Good      |              | 95%   | 0 (8)   | -     | -     | 6.47  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Hol   | Eduardo             | F C           | Okay      |              | 94%   | 2 (20)  | 4     | 3     | 6.84  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Int   | Mario Gómez         | ST            | Superb    |              | 77%   | 36      | 23    | 8     | 7.25  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Int   | Ciprian Marica      | ST            | Superb    |              | 85%   | 39      | 32    | 10    | 7.57  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 


Roberto Hilbert transferred out in January to Lazio.

| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     | Int   | Roberto Hilbert     | D/AM R        | Superb    |              | 95%   | 19(1)   | 3     | 12    | 7.25  | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Goal Keepers :

Jens Lehmann had a below average season. While he stared off brilliantly, his age and lack of agility and reflexes saw him make some critical errors that cost Stuttgart approximately 5 points. Jens did have an injury free season which was a fantastic result.

Sven Ulreich played the last game of the season and conceeded 2 goals. While he looked shakey, the 21 year old keeper has a lot of potential. He needs to improve his handling.

Defenders :

The Stuttgart defence was a lot better this season, conceeding 18 less goals than the year before.

Osorio was the brilliant performer at right back for Stuttgart this season, scoring 1 goal and contributing 9 assists.

Jelly started the season fantastically, but sufferred concentration lapses towards the end of the season. Jelly was also yellow carded 8 times and sent off twice. He had the worst discipline in the Stuttgart Squad.

Boularouz and Tasci were the central defensive pairing this season and while they did a lot better this season, there were still vulnerable to fast attackers. Tasci was also exploited a number of times by taller and stronger attackers.

Bikey did well for the most part of the season, playing across nearly every role in defence and as a defensive midfielder.

Midfielders :

The Stuttgart midfield is a force to be reckoned with when going forward but poor when it comes defensively.

While Thomas Hitzlsperger is fantastic as the club captain and worker in the heart of the midfield, he can be sometimes be caught out by faster players.

Going forward Hitzlsperger is one of the best midfielders in all of Europe. He contributed 12 goals (6 were penalties) and 16 assists, but his over-all performance was a little lower than the year before.

The same can be said for Sami Khedira. The defensive midfielder has now been left out of the German squad for a year and was not called up to the 2010 World Cup by Joachim Low.

Khedira, while he has been fantastic at times, can be caught out by skillful attacking midfielders. Sami will need to improve on his marking and speed.

Buonanotte was dropped at the latter stages of the season to Carlos Eduardo. He contributed with 2 goals and 8 assists but faded out towards the end of the season.

Carlos Eduardo started the season poorly, then showed glimpses of brilliance towards the tail end of the season. However Carlos sufferred numerous injuries and did not make his stamp on the season. He and Buonanotte will be fighting it out for a starting spot on the left wing next season.

Marquinhos had a great first 18 games with the club, contributing 5 goals and 7 assists. Can play anywhere in the midfield and in attack. He will be a force to be reckoned with next season when he becomes fully adjusted to the German lifestyle. A great signing to replace Hilbert.

16 year old Stefano Kohler made 1 appearance in the Bundesliga and 1 in a minor cup game. Stefano's assist to Marica on the last game of the season resulted in Stuttgart achieving a Champions League Position with a win over Leverkusen. One to watch for the future.

Doumeng, Boka and Yildiray had limited chances but did well when called upon.

Attackers :

Stuttgart once again had the best attack in the Bundesliga.

The Gomez-Marica partnership is the most prolific in Europe, scoring a massive 55 goals between them. When this partnership is broken, Stuttgart struggle to win games.

Gomez had a less of an impact this season compared to Ciprian Marica but still scored more goals than he did last season. He finished the season with 19 goals in the Bundesliga, the 3rd most prolific striker in Germany.

Ciprian Marica was brilliant this season and statistically he was the 2nd best striker in all of Europe. He was unlucky to not receive many accolaids for his great season, however there are rumours he may be off to Italy, with Serie A outfit Internazionale.

Brazilian turned Swiss Striker Eduardo started the season brilliantly for Stuttgart scoring crucial goals coming from the bench. He was capped for Switzerland, his adopted nation.

Eduardo had a falling out with Manager Colella and agreed to transfer to Nurnberg.

Jean Carioca only managed 8 games for Stuttgart this season, failing to make an impact. Limited injuries to Gomez and Marica and the versatility of Marquinhos limited his chances. He will be loaned out next season, most likely to Swiss side St Gallen.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Ghosts of players since gone...

A quick update on players who have recently played under your wing.

Alfredo Padilla (ex Watford) - Padilla is now 21 years old and has 8 caps for Colombia, with 1 goal. He is now dubbed "Sunderland's Owen" as he only managed 17 games in the EPL due to constantly being injured. He netted 7 goals this season. Surprisingly left out of the Colombia World Cup Squad, considering he is fit to play

Rodrigo Rojas (ex Watford) - He moved to Derby and sadly played only 2 games with a rating of 6.10. He did not feature in any of Derby's games this season.

Jay DeMerit (ex Watford) - Was sold by Watford to Sunderland for £2,500,000 to where he joined up with Padilla. You had quietly hoped he would do poorly in the Premiership and he did. Only featured in 11 matches and has struggled to get into the first team squad.

Roberto Hilbert (ex Stuttgart) - Roberto left Stuttgart in January for 16 million Euro. He has not adapted well to Italian football. Lazio have done poorly finishing 12th and while he played 11 games, he has not scored or contributed with any assists. He also managed to get sent off on his debut.

Martin Lanig (ex Stuttgart) - The player left Stuttgart for Hoffenheim for 10 million Euro. He actually scored twice against you and had a very decent season with Hoffenheim. The player knows your tactical secrets and he tends to exploit this, probably a reason why Hoffenheim scored 6 past Stuttgart this season.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Transfer News :

5th June 2010

Stuttgart eye Hertha captain Arne Friedrich to improve the back line.

Stuttgart Manager Antonio Colella is looking to Hertha Captain Arne Friedrich to improve a sluggish backline.

Stuttgart, who conceeded 41 goals this season was exposed many times due to poor positioning and lack of pace and acceleration.

31 year old Arne Friedrich, is one of the fastest defenders in the World and is known for his skill in nullifying mobile and tricky strikers.

Hertha finished 10th this season and Arne Friedrich seems interested to join a club that can offer him a spot in the Champions League.

On another positive note, Freidrich seems to be extreemly interested in joining the club as his closest friend, Thomas Hitzlsperger is in the Stuttgart Squad.

Arne Friedrich is valued around 4-6 million Euro.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Transfer News :

6th June 2010

Stuttgart's hunt for defenders continue with Andrea Costa and Miranda on the horizon.

Stuttgart continue to look to bolster their defence with the signing of defenders with a reputation of being quick on their feet.

Relatively unknown Italian left back, 24 year old Andrea Costa is on the list. The Italian defender did well for Reggina this season and has caught the attention of Stuttgart scouts. The six foot tall defender is lightning quick off the mark, is solid defensively in all aspects of his game and has good positional sense. While he may be known to stay back at all times and lacks a creative spark and crossing skill, he can be relied upon to keep a defence sturdy at the back.

Brazil International Miranda is another player Stuttgart is looking at. The 25 year old defender is also a pacey option for the centre of the defence. He is extreemly solid with his head, marking and tackling and very rarely does an attacker get the better of him. Miranda is also an expert in dead ball situations. Miranda has won a whole host of accolaids this season, winning the Copa Libertadores with Sao Paolo, the Brazilian Brasliao and runners up of the World Club Cup. He was also named in the South American team of the year, won the fans player of the year and was part of the Copa Libertadores Dream Team.

Miranda however, comes with a hefty price tag of 10 million Euro.

If the German club can secure these two signings, they may well boost their chances of bringing silverware to Stuttgart.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement:

6th June 2010

World Cup 2010 Squad's Annouced

Mexico have called up 29 year old Stuttgart defender, Ricardo Osorio to their Squad.

Senegal have called up 25 year old Stuttgart defender, Andre Bikey to their Squad.

Germany have called up 24 year old Striker Mario Gomez, 28 year old Midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger and 23 year old Defender Serdar Tasci to their Squad.

Netherlands have called up 28 year old Stuttgar defender Khalid Boulahrouz to their squad.

Stuttgart stars miss out

Sami Khedira was not called up to the German Squad, although having a great season. Sami has not been called up to the German Squad since August 2008, nearly making it a year outside the national scope. He has 3 caps for Germany.

Diego Buonanotte was also not called up to the Argentina squad, regardless of his growing reputation.

Carlos Eduardo who was short listed for a call up to Brazil by Dunga when at Hoffenheim, was not called up due to his poor season with Stuttgart. While the player has potential, he needs to affirm himself with his new club.

Marquinhos was surprisingly left out of the Brazil Squad, yet having to attain his first cap. Marquinhos is one of the brighest stars of Brazilian football and was expected to be announced in the squad, however he has been left out, much to the dismay of many fans who believed that he should be given a chance.

Arthur Boka has been surprisingly left out of the Ivory Coast Squad. Boka has 48 caps for the African side, and has scored 3 goals and is one of their best players. The player was extreemly displeased about this event.

Ciprian Marica will be watching the World Cup from the comfort of his own home, as Romania have failed to qualify for the World Cup.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

You need to spend money to make money...

Another season has come to an end.

While the fairy tale of winning the Bundesliga did not eventuate, you did a fantastic job with the limited resources you had.

The club had few available options up front, and the players you had were not happy at the club, Eduardo being one. He can rot in Nurnberg for all you care, you showed great faith in the player to bring him to Stuttgart and he repaid you with 4 goals and a transfer request. You probably should have given Carioca more chances instead of wasting it on Eduardo.

The squad harmony is still in-tact, though you need to find a way to ensure your team does not drop their performances in the later stages of the season again next year.

Yildiray will be leaving, there is no way you want him to stay in your squad and create a negative atmosphere.

Doumeng is a talented player, but on the verge of hitting 30 and he is always demanding more play time. You want the player to stay as he is very useful as a squad player, but you also can't bother with constant nagging.

You are undecided if the player is to stay or not.

With the signing of Gebhart and Ouali you have more options, and they are younger players with something to prove. They will be good replacement for these departures.

You now focus on getting yourself some decent defenders who possess great speed.

You are fed up with your slow back line and want some experienced defenders to take their place.

You desperately want Miranda and Fredreich in the heart of your defence, but you know it will cost a lot of money.

Time to get to work and build a strong Champions League Squad, even if it might cost a fortune.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement :

20th June 2010

Ciprian Marica named Stuttgart Fans Player of the Year

Ciprian Marica has been named Stuttgart's Fans Player of the Year.

Marica had a fantastic year and with luck on his side he was rated as Europes 2nd most prolific striker. He scored some fantastic goals and none more important than the 96th minute strike against Leverkusen to bring Stuttgart back into Europe.

Marica scored 32 goals in 39 matches and even added 10 assists to his record.

There have been rumours that he may be off to Inter next season but the player has states other wise.

"That's just media hype. While an offer from Inter would be something to be proud of as a player, I have no intention of leaving. My home is at Stuttgart, I have a contract until 2015 and I want to do well in the Champions League!"

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement:

22nd June 2010

Stuttgart announce friendlies for forthcoming season and annouce tour of QATAR!.

Stuttgart Under 19's HOME

St Gallen (Switzerland) AWAY

PAOK (Greece) AWAY

LYON (France) HOME

TOUR OF QATAR :

Al-Ahli AWAY

Al-Arabi AWAY

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement

23rd June 2010

Colella accepts Qatari FA President, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani invitation for Tour.

Colella is off to Asia, to promote German Football and to patch up ties with the Qatari people.

Colella had recently outraged the Qatari FA after heated comments stating that Qatari football was of a poor level.

"I am happy to announce that Mr Colella has agreed to take his side to Qatar to experience the very high level of football here in Asia. He will be surprised to find that Asian football is on the rise, not only backed financially here but our home grown players are of a very very good level."

Stuttgart will play Al-Ahli and Al-Arabi in two matches and there is no indication that he will be taking a full strength side.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement:

24th June 2010

Colella out-burst on ESPN-Soccernet Press Pass Phone-in Interview

Stuttgart Manager Colella had another brush with the media this evening, this time on ESPN Press Pass with Irishman Tommy Smyth.

In the interview, Colella was asked by Shaka Hislop what his thoughts were about holding on to his key players with such constant pressure from bigger clubs.

Colella had begun answering the question as follows;

"We have a number of very talented players at our club and a lot of fresh and young faces. I think Stuttgart has the financial capacity and stature to hold on to the best players at our club, especially with the fact that we have a very close group in the dressing room."

While Colella was answering the question, Tommy Smyth had interrupted the Stuttgart manager twice with the words "Rubbish" which sparked anger fom the Italian Manager.

"What is this Rubbish you are talking Mr Smyth? I do not understand where you have gained your expertise in "soccer", because as far as I can tell you are just a Generic sports color Analyst and no history whatsoever in professional football. I think it is about time you shove your opinion up your old onion bag." - stated Colella, his voice visibly shaken by adrenalin.

"Ok Thank you Mr Colella, good luck in the Champions League, if you can make it to the group stages" - was the reply from the Irish Commentator.

With Shaka Hislop looking on sporting a grin, the ESPN Show went to an ad break.

Colella is beginning to gain a name for him-self in Germany with a Giovanni Trappatoni-esque style temperament.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

You will sell no one...

The board have been great so far, giving you 19 million Euro's to purchase new players and you only have two players in mind, as you are happy with the rest of the squad.

However, it seems they are also expecting a big name departure to bolster the coffers at the club.

"God dammit - if you are forced to sell any of your top players this season you will resign from Stuttgart." You think to yourself.

No less than 12 players have been approached by other clubs, asking for their availability.

Internazionale is after Marica, Carlos Eduardo and Hitzlsperger.

Valencia is after Gomez.

Bayern is after Hitzlsperger.

Betis and Fiorentina want Buonanotte.

Real Madrid want Marquinhos.

Genoa are after Boulahrouz.

These are just a number of enquiries that have come through in the matter of 48 hours.

You perform well in a season and suddenly your entire club becomes a shopping mall. Yet the offers that do come in are close to pathetic.

You are in an extreemly grumpy mood today and you are ready to lash out at the next person who gets on your bad side...

...you will sell no one...

[SCIAG]

Blimey, this is coming along quickly!

it might be worth slowing down the update speed slightly. For one, this will stop you exhausting your supply if you get bored of writing. Secondly, it will help people keep up.

Another small thing- try to stay consistent. For example, in the above post, you write "Bayern is after Hitzlsperger... Genoa are after Boulahrouz." In British English, it is standard to refer to collective nouns (Genoa, Bayern, the army) with "are". In American English, it's better to use "is". Whichever you choose, stick to it.

Great work though, and keep it up!

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Hi SCIAG, thanks for the tips.

I grew up in Australia and use British English, but I also spent a few of my early years (8yrs to 12 yrs old) in Italy, so my English isn't always perfect! It also tends to get worse when the energy drinks run out in the wee hours of the morning.

When I asked for tips in an earlier post, I really did mean that I DO NEED them, so I can improve my writing and my English. I have also had some issues in the past few years that affects my writing ability and memory so any help is very very very very (did i say VERY??) appreciated.

I have actually had a lot of time off due to holidays, so I am playing a fair bit and the story is moving along with it.

It also doesn't help being extreemly fast at typing, as I work in IT. I think I once wrote a whole movie script in a few days and it was over 100 pages long. LOL

I really like to write as I play, or I am sort of forced to do catch up writing (which I hate doing). That was something I did with my first season in the game and this story and it made the story lack in game information!

The information can be just written as I am doing and people can read it like a little book if they need to.

I definately won't get bored with my story and I enjoy writing, so if the views keep coming - although I haven't really been checking, I will continue to share the path of my Managerial Career.

[Tubey84]

If you're anything like me, writing the story "as you go" actually adds more of a picture in your mind and puts you "in the zone" to continue. You actually get into character and its "your side" - the thought of not doing it becomes unthinkable!

I think your workload is fine - the pace you're at isn't anywhere near as frantic as my story; yours is simply more detailed and character based.

Really enjoying it, and as you said...

The information can be just written as I am doing and people can read it like a little book if they need to.

Exactly

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Thanks for the kind words Tubey.

Yeah, I agree with the "zone" comment. You end up getting into the game so much more and it makes your story so much more immersive and you end up fuelling all the media in a whirlwind of fictional writing.

[SCIAG]

I don't mean that you shouldn't write as you go. That's fine. But I mean that perhaps you'd be better off writing in a word processor (MS Word, Open Office Writer, Notepad...) and then posting at a steadier rate.

Oh, and I'm yet to point out the awesomeness of Shaka. Shaka is awesome.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Transfer News :

1st July 2010

Stuttgart announce the signing of Hertha Captain, Arne Friedrich!

In one of the biggest transfer coups of the off season, Stuttgart have unveiled the signing of German International and former Hertha Captain Arne Friedrich.

The deal was said to be in the region of 5 million Euro.

The 31 year old central defender has amassed 62 caps for Germany and had captained his club and nation in recent years.

The player, who will wear the number 20 shirt, had a few words with the media.

"I am extremely happy to have been signed for Stuttgart. This is a strong club with great ambitions and I hope we can advance through to the Champions League group stage in the coming weeks. I am also happy to be working with a talented manager and a number of players whom I know from the German setup such as Thomas (Hitzlsperger). I will fit in well with this club and will be looking forward to my debut."

Friedrich is known for his explosive pace in defence and some have compared the player to that of Italian Captain Fabio Cannavaro for his abilities as a leader and to mark opposing strikers completely out of the game.

While the player has just turned 31, he is still regarded as one of the fastest defenders in the Bundesliga and possibly in the World.

Stuttgart have struggled with pace at the back and the signing of Friedrich will be a huge boost for the clubs aspirations.

Player Profile

Arne Friedrich

| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Germany                  | 62 caps / 0 goals        |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 29.5.1979                | 31 years old             |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6'1"                     | 79 kg                    |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| €5,000,000               | Right Only               |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| €3,100,000 per annum     | 30.6.2013                |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| Year    | Team       | Division                 | Info    | Apps    | Gls     | Asts    | MoM     | Av R    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2010-11 | Stuttgart  | Bundesliga               | €5M     | 0       | -       | -       | -       | ----    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2009-10 | Hertha BSC | Bundesliga               |         | 32      | 0       | 1       | 0       | 6.79    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2008-09 | Hertha BSC | Bundesliga               |         | 31      | 0       | 2       | 0       | 6.97    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2007-08 | Hertha BSC | Bundesliga               |         | 30      | 0       | -       | -       | -       | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2006-07 | Hertha BSC | Bundesliga               |         | 26      | 2       | -       | -       | -       | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2005-06 | Hertha BSC | Bundesliga               |         | 31      | 1       | -       | -       | -       | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2004-05 | Hertha BSC | Bundesliga               |         | 25      | 3       | -       | -       | -       | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2003-04 | Hertha BSC | Bundesliga               |         | 30      | 2       | -       | -       | -       | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2002-03 | Hertha BSC | Bundesliga               | €1.8M   | 33      | 5       | -       | -       | -       | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2001-02 | Bielefeld  | 2. Bundesliga            |         | 22      | 0       | -       | -       | -       | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2000-01 | Bielefeld  | 2. Bundesliga            | €50K    | 25      | 1       | -       | -       | -       | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1999-00 | Verl       | Regional Div. West (EXT) |         | 31      | 0       | -       | -       | -       | 

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Transfer news :

2nd July 2010

Stuttgart sign Miranda for 20 million Euro and break the club transfer fee record!!

Twenty five year old defender Joao Miranda de Souza Filho, known simply as Miranda is officially a Stuttgart player.

The signing however has not come without a few raised eye-brows.

The Sao Paulo star was valued around the 9 million euro mark and was chased by a number of top European Clubs, including Tottenham, AC Milan and Arsenal.

However Sao Paulo would not release the player for anything under 20 million Euro's and it seemed Stuttgart was the only club interested in taking he negotiations further.

The pacey and skilled defender transfer fee was said to have been "astronomical" by many members of the press around Germany and that the money was not well spent.

Felix Austd, a leading football journalist in Germany had the following comments to make.

"Miranda has only one cap for Brazil, he is 25 and was not even considered for Brazil's squad for the 2010 World Cup. You tell me, how a player who is not proven and plays in a weak league like Brazil, can warrant such a transfer fee, it is ridiculous."

Miranda is the second transfer during the off season, after Stuttgart signed Arne Friedrich for a fee of 5 million Euro.

Alex Grundmann, the supporter spokesman for Stuttgart added the following.

"It is good to see that the club has invested in two fantastic full backs. Arne Friedrich is very solid in defence and Miranda while only capped once for Brazil, is a fantastic talent. He had one bad game for Brazil on his debut and had a fall out with Dunga - which is the only reason he has not featured again for his country!"

Miranda is well known for his skill at set pieces as well as being an explosive player on the park with blistering speed.

Stuttgart are hoping both Miranda and Friedrich can improve a defence that has conceeded over 100 goals in the past two seasons.

Player Profile

Miranda

| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Brazil                   | 1 cap / 0 goals          |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7.9.1984                 | 25 years old             |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6'1"                     | 78 kg                    |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| €19,500,000              | Right Only               |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| €1,800,000 per annum     | 30.6.2015                |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                          |                          |                          | 
| -------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

| Year    | Team                   | Division    | Info    | Apps    | Gls     | Asts    | MoM     | Av R    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2010-11 | Stuttgart              | Bundesliga  | €19.5M  | 0       | -       | -       | -       | ----    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2010    | São Paulo              | Brasileirão |         | 24      | 0       | 4       | 4       | 7.10    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2009    | São Paulo              | Brasileirão |         | 52      | 2       | 9       | 14      | 7.50    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2008    | São Paulo              | Brasileirão |         | 37      | 2       | 5       | 7       | 7.34    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2007    | São Paulo              | Brasileirão | €1.2M   | 35      | 2       | -       | -       | -       | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2006    | São Paulo              | Brasileirão | Loan    | 27      | 3       | -       | -       | -       | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2005-06 | FC Sochaux-Montbéliard | Ligue 1     | €2M     | 20      | 0       | -       | -       | -       | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2005    | Coritiba               | Brasileirão |         | 9       | 0       | -       | -       | -       | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2004    | Coritiba               | Brasileirão |         | 36      | 2       | -       | -       | -       | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|         |                        |             |         |         |         |         |         |         | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|         |                        |             |         |         |         |         |         |         | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Transfer News :

Stuttgart Transfers for the 2010/2011 season

Players In:

| Date               | Person             | From               | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2010           | Diego              | São Paulo          | €85K               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2010           | Gebhart, Timo      | 1860 München       | €1.6M              | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2010           | Ouali, Idir        | Watford            | €1.4M              | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2010           | Friedrich, Arne    | Hertha BSC         | €5M                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.7.2010           | Miranda            | São Paulo          | €19.5M             | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | €27.5M             | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    |                    |                    |                    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Stuttgart purchased Diego, Gebhart and Ouali during last season.

Friedrich and Miranda are the only summer inclusions.

Players Out:

| Date               | Person             | To                 | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2010           | Eduardo            | Nürnberg           | €1.9M              | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2010           | Yildiray           |                    | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | €1.9M              | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    |                    |                    |                    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

VFB Stuttgart Squad 2010/2011

Goal Keepers :

| Name                | Position      | Nat     | Height  | Weight  | Age     | Value   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Dennis Hertl        | GK            | GER     | 6'2"    | 88 kg   | 17      | €250K   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Jens Lehmann        | GK            | GER     | 6'4"    | 82 kg   | 40      | €240K   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Sven Ulreich        | GK            | GER     | 6'4"    | 83 kg   | 21      | €1.6M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Jens Lehmann is still the most talented goalie at the club. This may well be his last season. His performances dropped last season, but his experience at the back is still not matched by the other goal keepers.

Ulreich has been dubbed "the next Jens Lehmann", although you see he still has a lot to learn. His stats have already improved considerably. He may play a lot more games this season.

Dennis Hertl is already nearly on par with Ulreich and you know he will be the real "Next Jens Lehmann". He might already be a starter once Jens retires. A star for the future.

Defenders :

| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Khalid Boulahrouz   | D RLC         | NED     | 6'0"    | 74 kg   | 28      | €3.5M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Arne Friedrich      | D RC          | GER     | 6'1"    | 79 kg   | 31      | €5M     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Miranda             | D RC          | BRA     | 6'1"    | 78 kg   | 25      | €19.5M  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| André Bikey         | D RC, DM, M C | CMR     | 6'2"    | 80 kg   | 25      | €2.9M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Jelly               | D LC, WB/M L  | BEL     | 6'4"    | 86 kg   | 26      | €2.7M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Serdar Tasçi        | D C           | GER     | 6'1"    | 79 kg   | 23      | €7.5M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Ricardo Osorio      | D/WB R        | MEX     | 5'8"    | 68 kg   | 30      | €2.9M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Arthur Boka         | D/WB/M L      | CIV     | 5'5"    | 67 kg   | 27      | €1.9M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

The defence now has many versatile players and a lot of depth as well.

The new back four will feature players who are all tall, speedy and strong physically.

Friedrich and Miranda are both wonderful additions to the squad.

Friedrich can play as a centre back and a right back and the roles are second nature to him. Friedrich enjoys playing as a right back as it allows him to get forward, which is something he enjoys doing.

Miranda will be along side Tasci in defence. The Brazilian star is the clubs record signing and hopes to do well. He is also a free kick and penalty specialist and will take the kicks along side Hitzlsperger.

Osorio, although he had a very good year last season, will be on the bench this year. He did great in his position going forward and assisting the attack, however Stuttgart will be focusing on speed, strength and ability in the air, something that Osorio only offers with speed.

Boularhouz who played as a centre defender last season, will once again feature as left back as he did in the 2008/2009 season. However his role will be different than it was two seasons ago. He will remain back at all times and use his physical presence to mark out players on his wing. He should do a lot better when not having to be employed in wing back duties.

Tasci is a wonderful talent in defence. He has already been capped for the German senior side. He had a relatively poor year in 2008/2009, however he has already improved considerably, especially with his heading in 2009/2010. 2010/2011 is expected to be his best season yet.

Jelly, a similar player to Boulahrouz will be playing as a backup to the defensive back four. He is the clubs only naturally left sided defender and he may well take the spot from Boulahrouz if the Dutch defender does not impress.

Arthur Boka has improved on his tackling and will be used in rotation on both the left back and left midfield positions. He is fast and has a great cross.

Stuttgart's defence was a lot better last season, only conceeding 41 goals in 38 games.

They should definately improve on that this season.

Midfielders :

| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Sami Khedira        | DM, M C       | GER     | 6'2"    | 82 kg   | 23      | €5M     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Thomas Hitzlsperger | M LC          | GER     | 6'0"    | 80 kg   | 28      | €7.25M  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Stefano Köhler      | M C           | GER     | 5'10"   | 74 kg   | 16      | €1.3M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Geoffrey Doumeng    | AM RC         | FRA     | 5'6"    | 61 kg   | 29      | €1.6M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Timo Gebhart        | AM RC, F C    | GER     | 6'0"    | 74 kg   | 21      | €1.6M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Marquinhos          | AM RLC, F C   | BRA     | 5'9"    | 67 kg   | 20      | €12M    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Diego Buonanotte    | AM LC         | ARG     | 5'3"    | 60 kg   | 22      | €5.25M  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Carlos Eduardo      | AM LC         | BRA     | 5'7"    | 68 kg   | 22      | €5.5M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Diego               | AM C          | BRA     | 5'11"   | 80 kg   | 18      | €85K    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Marcel Wagner       | AM C          | GER     | 6'0"    | 78 kg   | 16      | €1M     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Stuttgart have one of the most talented and promising midfields in all of Europe, however much of their young talent is still unproven at the highest level.

Diego Buonanotte and Carlos Eduardo will be fighting for a position on the wing. They are both very similar players, although Carlos is far more advanced physically, while Diego has a great footballing mind.

Carlos Eduardo has also improved considerably on his crossing and has surpassed Buonanotte and thus he will start as left midfielder this season.

One worrying factor of Diego is his very small stature. He is susceptable to some rough treatment from the German defenders, who are all mainly tall and strong. His speed however will be perfect to counter this weakness.

Doumeng will be on rotation to cover for injuries, tireness and suspensions. He is a very valuable resource to the club, however Doumeng would like to be more than just a backup player.

Hitzlsperger is the leader of the midfield and of the club. A very talented individual. You are happy he remains at the club and will be playing in his natural role of central midfielder. At 28years of age, he will be at his peak in the coming season. He has however, slowed down in speed over the past 12 months, something the player has been working on during the off-season.

You still see the huge potential in Khedira. He has great heading and tackling with wonderful long range shooting and he is also a great finisher. He needs to improve on his marking and is working on this during the off-season. You hope he can force his way back into the German national side.

Marquinhos will be the clubs right winger and he is a very talented youngster. He played 18 matches last year and fans have already forgotten about the departure of Hilbert. He can also play as a striker.

Timo Gebhart also comes to the squad and is a wonderful talent for the future. He can play as right midfielder and right wing. He can also play as an attacking midfielder and as a striker. He has been told however, that he will be employed mainly as a striker this season and cover where need be.

Kohler, Wagner and Diego are the clubs youth players and will alternate between the Under 19 team and the first team. Their chances will be very limited this season, but they have been registered as part of the Stuttgart Squad.

Attackers :

| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Jean Carioca        | AM/F C        | BRA     | 5'11"   | 78 kg   | 22      | €1.8M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Eckart              | ST            | GER     | 6'0"    | 82 kg   | 16      | €2M     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Mario Gómez         | ST            | GER     | 6'2"    | 83 kg   | 24      | €14.75M | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Ciprian Marica      | ST            | ROU     | 6'0"    | 78 kg   | 24      | €7.25M  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Idir Ouali          | ST            | ALG     | 5'9"    | 65 kg   | 22      | €1.4M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Sven Schipplock     | ST            | GER     | 6'1"    | 87 kg   | 21      | €1.7M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| Marcus Schneider    | ST            | GER     | 5'9"    | 71 kg   | 17      | €1.8M   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                     |               |         |         |         |         |         | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Stuttgart was once again the most prolific of the Bundesliga. This is mainly due to their two front men Gomez and Marica. The strike force duo is now unchanged for its 4th consecutive year.

Mario Gomez has continued on his wonderful scoring touch and has been a consistent player for the club his entire career. He has 194 appearances for Stuttgart scoring 94 goals.

Ciprian Marica only managed 2 goals in 28 matches during his first season with Stuttgart. However in the last two seasons, he has exploded into one of Europes most feared strikers.

57 goals in 77 appearances in all competions over a 24 month period, is simply astounding.

Speed, Flair, Composure and Dribbling - The Romanian Maradona - will have to do well yet again if Stuttgart are to realise their high ambitions.

Idir Ouali has also joined Stuttgart. The French - Algerian player has a lot of potential and if nurtured correctly can become a very valuable player for Stuttgart.

Finishing, Composure, Technique and a brilliant first touch, he does not miss many chances that fall for him.

Jean Carioca only had 8 appearances last season and may go out on loan.

Sven Schipplock may also be sent out on loan once again.

Eckart and Schneider will also feature little this season but will be in the squad if required.

The club however may need more one experienced striker to cover for injuries and any experience in the Champions League can be beneficial as Ouali, Carioca, Schipplock and others do not have what it takes to make that big step just yet.

[Tubey84]

Love that run-down of the squad. I'm gonna have to borrow that for my Ternana story.

Excellent work Lavezzi

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement :

4th July 2010

Stuttgart Players extend contracts

Geoffrey Doumeng has extended his contract with Stuttgart until 2012. The 29 year old French winger's contract was due to expire at the end of the season but Colella has decided to hold on to the player. Doumeng was also given a slight pay rise.

Sven Ulreich is given a 5 year contract until June 2015. The player also doubled his wage and was advised he would be playing as a backup to Lehmann for 2010/2011.

Jens Lehmann has taken another pay cut and has halved his pay. He has also extended his contract until 2012 which will mean the player will be close to 43 when he retires.

Lehmann has been given the role as club Vice-Captain (2nd year running) and the starting Keeper position for the 2010/2011 season, mainly due to his vast experience in the European Champions League.

There are also rumours that the player may become a share-holder of the club due to his links with Club Director Horst Heldt.

Ricardo Osorio has also extended his contract until 2012. The 30 year old right back will be utilised as a squad player this season.

[Ezequiel_Lavezzi]

Press Announcement :

6th July 2010

Mario Gomez extends contract with Stuttgart until 2015.

Stuttgart star, Mario Gomez has extended his stay at the Mercedes-Benz arena until 2015.

The 25 year old striker's contract was due to expire in 2012, and numerous clubs were already shortlisting the player on a possible pre-contract agreement in 18 months time.

This ends all speculation as to Mario's loyalty and it is solidly with Stuttgart.

The player will earn 3.1 million Euro a season, matching the salary of Thomas Hitzlsperger.