**Lopetegui: Fullkrug's Return Timeline Unclear**

Tecfai Editorial Team

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Nov 09, 2024

49 visitor like this post

Share

Lopetegui: Fullkrug's Return Timeline Unclear

VfL Wolfsburg manager, Niko Kovac, has confirmed that Niclas Fullkrug's return from injury remains uncertain, with the German striker facing an uphill battle to be fit for the upcoming international break.

Fullkrug, who starred for Germany at the 2022 World Cup, sustained a knee injury in Wolfsburg's 2-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund on February 18th. While the initial prognosis suggested a potential return within a few weeks, Kovac has tempered expectations, indicating that the striker's recovery is taking longer than anticipated.

"He is still in the rehab phase, and we are taking it day by day," Kovac stated in a recent press conference. "It is too early to say when he will be back. We are not going to rush him back, as his health is our priority."

Fullkrug's absence has been a significant blow for Wolfsburg, who have struggled to maintain their attacking potency in his absence. The 30-year-old was instrumental in the club's strong start to the season, scoring 10 goals in 16 Bundesliga appearances before his injury.

The uncertainty surrounding Fullkrug's return timeline adds another layer of complexity for Germany manager, Hansi Flick. The upcoming international break sees Germany facing two crucial UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying matches, against Ukraine and Poland.

While Flick has been impressed by the performances of other strikers, such as Youssoufa Moukoko and Karim Adeyemi, the return of Fullkrug would be a significant boost to the team's attacking arsenal.

With the Bundesliga season approaching its climax, Wolfsburg will be hoping for Fullkrug's return sooner rather than later. The club is currently battling for a top-half finish and a potential spot in the UEFA Conference League next season.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Fullkrug's recovery progress and the timeframe for his potential return.