Werder Bremen are set to face VfL Wolfsburg at the Weserstadion this Friday, 7 November 2025, kicking off the 10th Bundesliga matchday. The Green-Whites are aiming for their third consecutive home victory before the international break, but key personnel changes could impact their chances.
Stark Ruled Out, Schmidt Returns
Head coach Horst Steffen confirmed that Niklas Stark will miss the game due to a hip injury. However, there's good news as Isaac Schmidt is back in contention for a starting spot. "It seems he has recovered well from the injury," Steffen stated, suggesting Schmidt could start.
Despite Schmidt's return, Steffen hasn't ruled out keeping captain Marco Friedl on the left side of defence. "The priority is to win games, and players need to put their personal preferences aside," Steffen explained. He remained tight-lipped about whether Friedl or Schmidt would start on the left.
Injury List Remains Extensive
Werder Bremen's injury woes continue with long-term absentees Mitchell Weiser (cruciate ligament rupture), Maximilian Wöber (muscle injury), Olivier Deman (fractured external malleolus), Felix Agu (syndesmotic ligament injury), and Salim Musah (thigh problems) all sidelined.
Will Steffen Bench Coulibaly?
With Isaac Schmidt fit, manager Horst Steffen faces a selection dilemma: Does he bench the talented youngster Karim Coulibaly? Coulibaly has been impressive alongside Amos Pieper, but recently trained less, suggesting fatigue. A possible alternative is bringing in Cameron Puertas for Samuel Mbangula, who underperformed in Mainz.
A win on Friday would be historic for Werder Bremen, marking their third consecutive home victory. Coach Steffen is confident that his squad has the depth to achieve this, stating, "We have players who can impact the game in different ways."
The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with Werder Bremen looking to continue their home form against a tough Wolfsburg side.