Hoeneß on RB rumor: "This time I could only smile"

VfB Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeneß is unperturbed by the never-ending speculation about his future. "This time I could really only smile," said the 42-year-old when asked about a media report that a hot lead should lead to RB Leipzig in the summer.

"I would actually be interested to see how these things develop," said Hoeneß. However, he does not feel compelled to comment "every time things are rehashed from my point of view". He is in "constant communication" with VfB.

Hoeneß' contract in Stuttgart runs until June 30, 2027, but contains an exit clause. He can leave the Swabian Bundesliga club early for a fixed transfer fee of allegedly up to eight million euros - but only to a club that plays internationally. Whether Marco Rose will continue as coach in Leipzig beyond the summer is questionable.

More efficiency needed against Bayern

According to Hoeneß, Stuttgart will need courage, courage, passion - and above all more efficiency - against FC Bayern Munich on Friday (20:30/DAZN). In the 1:1 draw against TSG 1899 Hoffenheim last Sunday, the result was not right. In terms of creating chances, however, his team took a step forward.

VfB have picked up just four points from their last five league games and are seventh in the table ahead of the opening matchday 24. Bayern arrive at the top of the table and are eight points ahead of chasing Bayer Leverkusen.