As expected, Angelo Stiller will miss Stuttgart’s upcoming clash with RB Leipzig, but the Swabians remain hopeful he’ll recover in time for the DFB-Pokal final.

VfB Stuttgart were dealt a significant injury blow during their 4-0 win over Augsburg last week, as midfield talisman Angelo Stiller was forced off with an ankle problem.

The German international will miss Stuttgart’s final Bundesliga fixture of the season against RB Leipzig on Saturday due to the injury, but there remains hope he could return in time for the DFB-Pokal final against Arminia Bielefeld on May 24.

“He’s in the healing process and making progress,” head coach Sebastian Hoeneß said at Thursday’s press conference.

Hoeneß went on to explain that Stiller’s recent use of crutches was a planned part of his rehabilitation – “not because things have gotten better or worse.”

While the midfielder’s recovery is proceeding normally, Hoeneß stressed that it’s still too early to make any definitive call regarding his availability for the final.

“It’s far too early to give a prediction – that’s why I won’t. Nothing should be read into that,” he emphasized, adding that Stiller remains mentally strong despite the setback.

“He’s a fighter. He’s in good spirits and determined to earn the chance to play in this special match.”