Nikolas Nartey is inching closer to rejoining VfB Stuttgart’s first team after an arduous battle with injury.
The 24-year-old midfielder, once hailed for his undeniable talent, is set to resume team training, but head coach Sebastian Hoeneß emphasizes a cautious approach.
“We need to introduce him slowly and build him up carefully,” said Hoeneß, highlighting the fragile state of Nartey’s recovery journey.
The Danish-Ghanaian footballer has endured a grueling year and a half. Cartilage damage in his knee sidelined him for the entirety of last season. Just as he was on the brink of a return with the U21s in October, another knee issue halted his progress.
“He reacted immediately after trying to play. He’s been fighting hard to catch up,” Hoeneß remarked, acknowledging the midfielder’s determination.
Despite the setbacks, Hoeneß remains optimistic about Nartey’s potential impact. “I’ve been waiting to work with him fully because he’d simply help us,” the coach admitted, though a competitive match appearance this year seems unlikely.
For now, Nartey’s focus is singular: steady steps toward reclaiming his place at Stuttgart.
