Nikolas Nartey
VFB
AM (RW)
Shadow Striker
Feb 22, 2000 (26)
Left
6'1"
181 lb
StuttgartNearing team return
Nartey (thigh) could return to full team training early next week, according to head coach Sebastian HoeneB. "He is already doing quite a bit. We're hoping he might be able to step back in early next week, but it won't be enough for this week."
Analysis: Nartey suffered a muscle injury and is now showing signs of progress in his recovery, with Sebastian HoeneB reporting that the midfielder is already doing quite a lot. The coach hopes Nartey can resume full team training early next week, although a return this week remains too early. His progression is encouraging, but whether he can be included in the squad for the Bundesliga match against Borussia Dortmund on Sep. 19 remains unclear and will likely depend on how he responds after returning to full training.
Suspended for Champions League opener
Nartey (thigh) will miss Wednesday's Champions League opener against Viking due to suspension, leaving him more time to recover from his injury, according to UEFA.
Analysis: Nartey had been dealing with a thigh injury suffered in the DFB Pokal match against Hansa Rostock, lasting only nine minutes before being replaced by Josha Vagnoman, an issue that had already left his availability for upcoming matches unclear. This suspension now confirms he will be sidelined for the European opener regardless of how that recovery progresses.
Sidelined after cup injury
Nartey is facing a potential absence after picking up a thigh injury in the DFB-Pokal match against Hansa Rostock, VfB Stuttgart announced Saturday.
Analysis: Nartey was in the starting lineup for the cup match but lasted only nine minutes on the field before being replaced by Josha Vagnoman. This leaves Stuttgart with a big worry regarding one of their main midfield options heading into the early part of the season. No return timeline has been provided, so his availability for upcoming matches remains unclear.
Finished with aplomb
Nartey scored one goal to go with two shots (two on goal) in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Analysis: Nartey finished his breakout campaign with his fourth goal of the season, leaving him with four goals and three assists in 28 appearances (14 starts.) The midfielder made the most of his chances throughout the season and ended the season with two starts in a row. Nartey should be in line to take on an even larger role in 2026/27.
Signs contract extension until 2028
Nartey has signed a contract extension with Stuttgart until June 2028, committing his future to the club he joined from Koln in 2019, the club announced.
Analysis: Nartey has overcome numerous injury setbacks throughout his time at Stuttgart to establish himself as a reliable and versatile presence in the squad, making 37 appearances across all competitions this season and contributing three goals and four assists. Sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth praised his development into a stable and important factor within the team, highlighting his ability to make an impact in multiple positions. The 26-year-old made his national team debut in March 2026, adding another milestone to what has been his most productive season in Stuttgart colors, which also included a DFB Pokal winners medal in 2025. Nartey expressed his happiness at the club, citing the strong team environment, coaching staff and passionate fanbase as key reasons behind his decision to extend his stay.
Assists vs Leverkusen
Nartey assisted once to go with zero corners and four chances created in Saturday's 3-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen.
Analysis: Nartey make his return to the pitch Saturday, recording an assist in the process. He's only earned three starts in the last eight appearances, collecting two goals and assists in that span.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare