Deniz Undav Speaks Out: Football Stars and Superficial Judgment
What aggravates Undav is, "When Leroy enters clad in boxer shorts..."
Germany, here we go! Deniz Undav, our striker, isn't a fan of the shallow judgments meted out to footballers, especially when it comes to their wardrobe or accessories. He believes that poor performance on the field should not invite such criticism, yet it often does.
Undav was questioned about his teammate Leroy Sané's stylish outfits during a press conference before the Nations League third-place match against France. Undav's fashion choice, however, was a far cry from Sané's. He carried a trash bag and later a plastic bag to the press conference - a decision that was far from intentional. "Not at all," Undav clarified, "I was just transporting my football boots. I'm not fussed about such trivialities," he said, adding his support for Sané and other teammates who care about their fashion and appearance. "Everyone should be able to dress however they want. It's nobody's business to judge if it doesn't affect them," he argued.
People seemed to have a field day discussing Sané's expensive clothing online, but according to Undav, it's his business. "If he wants to show up in just his boxers, he should be able to," he said. "We shouldn't discuss whether it's cool or not. It's his decision," he added,, emphasizing his personal freedom in dressing up.
Undav himself has been a victim of this kind of scrutiny. His preference for doner or energy drinks was criticized during a poor performance phase. "Of course, I noticed it," he said. Initially, it bothered him a lot. "Before, everything was cool, top, and I was one of us. And suddenly I wasn't. I didn't understand that," he said, having had discussions with experienced teammates like captain Joshua Kimmich to help him stay grounded.
A Shot at Stuttgart?
Undav's performance with VfB Stuttgart during the 2024/25 season has shown signs of improvement, culminating in their DFB Cup victory. Now, the three-goal scorer hopes to finally get some playing time against France after several games without any minutes. "Of course, you're frustrated when you don't play. But it's about the team. Eventually, I'll get my chance - and then I have to deliver. I've already shown that I can score. Of course, I'm waiting for my chance. Maybe it'll come in my home game in Stuttgart."
[1] VfB Stuttgart 2024/25 Season Performance[2] Deniz Undav: From Demise to Rise[3] Undav's Food Choices Spark Controversy
Deniz Undav showed support for his teammate Leroy Sané, stating everyone should be able to dress however they want, and that fashion choices shouldn't invite criticism. In the upcoming match against France, Undav hopes to get playing time and show his scoring abilities, having improved his performance with VfB Stuttgart during the 2024/25 season.
