Thu Oct 23 16:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Stuttgart Coach Downplays Fenerbahçe Hype Ahead of Europa League Clash

Istanbul, Turkey – Ahead of their Europa League match against Fenerbahçe tomorrow, Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeneß has downplayed the significance of the Turkish team’s recent league win, stating “They played a normal game. The usual Fenerbahçe. There’s no need to do anything special.”

Speaking at a press conference in Istanbul, Hoeneß confirmed his squad is injury-free and acknowledged Fenerbahçe’s strength under their coach, Domenico Tedesco. “I don’t know Domenico personally, but he’s leading the team well. They have a good group of players. It will be a difficult match in Istanbul in front of their own fans,” he said. Hoeneß highlighted the threat posed by players like Kerem Aktürkoğlu, emphasizing Stuttgart’s aim to control possession and stifle Fenerbahçe’s attacking prowess. “We will try to have more of the ball and prevent that. We will try to play an effective game as much as possible.”

When quizzed about rumors linking him to the Fenerbahçe job following Jose Mourinho’s departure, Hoeneß simply responded “No.”

Stuttgart midfielder Atakan Karazor, who will be playing in front of friends and family, expressed confidence in his ability to handle the atmosphere at Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium. “For me, it’s nice to be at home. My family and friends will be here. I know the atmosphere here because I played in the national team. I won’t be affected in any way,” he said.

Karazor lauded the fervent atmosphere, describing it as “hellish” based on previous visits. Despite Ermedin Demirovic’s absence, Karazor stated the team is determined to secure three points. He also named Fenerbahçe players İsmail Yüksek, Çağlar Söyüncü, Kerem Aktürkoğlu and Talisca as players he admires.

Karazor stressed the importance of minimizing mistakes against Fenerbahçe, stating, “We made a lot of ball losses in the last games in Bundesliga. We don’t want to make the same shortcomings against Fenerbahçe. We will be very careful. We don’t want to allow ball loss.”

Stuttgart completed their preparations for the match with a final training session following the press conference. The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:45 local time.

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