VfB Midfielder Stiller Refuses to Discuss DFB Exclusion
STUTTGART-VfB Stuttgart‘s Anton Stiller repeatedly declined to comment on his recent omission from the German national team roster, signaling clear frustration with the decision. The 29-year-old midfielder offered “no comment” three times when questioned about the selection by reporters, intensifying speculation surrounding the reasoning behind his exclusion.
The snub comes as a surprise given Stiller’s pivotal role in VfB Stuttgart’s strong current form. His teammates and coach have also expressed bewilderment at the decision by national team manager Julian Nagelsmann. The incident highlights potential discord within the DFB and raises questions about the criteria being used for national team selection ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
During a press conference, reporter Fabian Görner directly asked Stiller if he could understand the decision. Stiller responded,”Dazu möchte ich nichts sagen. Das haben wir intern so besprochen.” When pressed further on weather he was upset, Stiller again stated, “Kein Kommentar.”
Team colleague Alexander Nübel echoed the sentiment, telling RTL that he was “very surprised” by the omission. “He is a very crucial building block for us, a very good number six. No idea what the reason is that he was not nominated.”
VfB Stuttgart head coach Sebastian Hoeneß also voiced his surprise, stating before a recent match that he was “very surprised” by the non-nomination of Stiller.
The DFB has not yet publicly addressed the reasons for leaving Stiller off the roster. The next international break is scheduled for later this month, and the situation will likely remain a point of contention until Nagelsmann clarifies his selection process.