Best VfL Wolfsburg Players of All Time: A Definitive List
VfL Wolfsburg is a German professional sports club with a rich history in football. Since their establishment in 1945, the club has produced some of the greatest players in the history of German football. These players have helped the club win numerous domestic and international titles, cementing their place in the annals of football history.
From legendary strikers to midfield maestros, defensive stalwarts to goalkeeping greats, VfL Wolfsburg has produced some of the best players in the world. These players have left an indelible mark on the club and the sport, inspiring future generations of footballers to follow in their footsteps. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best VfL Wolfsburg players of all time, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the club’s success.
Key Takeaways
- VfL Wolfsburg has a rich history in football, producing some of the greatest players in the history of German football.
- Legendary strikers, midfield maestros, defensive stalwarts, and goalkeeping greats have all left an indelible mark on the club and the sport.
- The best VfL Wolfsburg players of all time have helped the club win numerous domestic and international titles, inspiring future generations of footballers to follow in their footsteps.
Legendary Strikers
VfL Wolfsburg has been home to some of the best strikers in the history of German football. These players have contributed immensely to the success of the club over the years. In this section, we will take a look at some of the legendary strikers who have graced the field for VfL Wolfsburg.
Edin Dzeko
Edin Dzeko is undoubtedly one of the most iconic players in VfL Wolfsburg’s history. The Bosnian striker joined the club in 2007 and quickly became one of their key players. During the 2008/09 season, Dzeko played a pivotal role in Wolfsburg’s first-ever Bundesliga title, scoring an incredible 26 goals in 34 league appearances. He also won the Bundesliga top scorer award that season.
Grafite
Grafite is another striker who will forever be remembered by VfL Wolfsburg fans. The Brazilian forward joined the club in 2007, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact. During the 2008/09 season, Grafite formed a deadly partnership with Edin Dzeko, and together they scored a total of 54 goals in the Bundesliga. Grafite finished the season as the league’s top scorer with 28 goals and was also named the Bundesliga Player of the Year.
Bas Dost
Bas Dost is a Dutch striker who played for VfL Wolfsburg from 2012 to 2016. During his time at the club, Dost scored a total of 48 goals in 85 appearances. He was particularly impressive during the 2013/14 season when he scored 20 goals in the Bundesliga, finishing as the league’s second-highest scorer. Dost’s aerial ability and clinical finishing made him a fan favorite at the Volkswagen Arena.
These are just a few of the legendary strikers who have played for VfL Wolfsburg over the years. Their contributions to the club’s success will never be forgotten, and they will always be remembered as some of the greatest players to have ever worn the green and white jersey.
Midfield Maestros
Throughout its history, VfL Wolfsburg has been home to some of the best midfielders in the game. These players have been instrumental in the team’s success, providing the creativity, vision, and work rate required to dominate games and win titles.
One of the most iconic midfielders to have played for Wolfsburg is Diego. The Brazilian playmaker arrived at the club in 2010 and immediately made an impact, scoring 10 goals and providing 10 assists in his debut season. He was instrumental in helping the team win the Bundesliga title in 2009, and his technical ability and vision made him a fan favorite during his time at the club.
Another midfield maestro who left his mark at Wolfsburg is Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian midfielder joined the club in 2014 and quickly established himself as one of the best players in the Bundesliga. He was named the league’s Player of the Year in 2015, after scoring 10 goals and providing 21 assists to help Wolfsburg finish second in the league. De Bruyne’s vision, passing, and shooting ability made him a key player for the team, and he was eventually sold to Manchester City for a club-record fee.
Other notable midfielders who have played for Wolfsburg include Zvjezdan Misimović, who won the Bundesliga title with the club in 2009, and Grafite, who formed a lethal partnership with Edin Dzeko up front during the same season. More recently, Maximilian Arnold has emerged as a key player for the team, providing energy, creativity, and goals from midfield.
Overall, VfL Wolfsburg has been blessed with some of the best midfielders in the game, and these players have played a crucial role in the team’s success over the years. With the club continuing to invest in talented young players, there is no doubt that the midfield maestros of the future will continue to shine at Wolfsburg.
Defensive Stalwarts
VfL Wolfsburg has had its fair share of defensive stalwarts who have helped the team achieve success over the years. These players have been the backbone of the team’s defense, providing stability and resilience in the backline.
One such player is Marcel Schäfer, who played for the club for a decade between 2007 and 2017. Schäfer was a versatile defender who could play at left-back or center-back. He was a key member of the team that won the Bundesliga title in 2009, and he also won the DFB-Pokal in 2015. Schäfer was known for his excellent defensive skills, as well as his ability to contribute to the attack with his accurate crosses and set-piece deliveries.
Another defensive stalwart for VfL Wolfsburg was Ricardo Costa. The Portuguese center-back played for the club between 2010 and 2014, and he was an integral part of the team that won the Bundesliga title in 2009. Costa was a commanding presence at the back, and his physicality and aerial ability made him a formidable opponent for any striker. He was also known for his leadership skills, and he often captained the team in the absence of regular captain Diego Benaglio.
Finally, there is Andrea Barzagli, who played for VfL Wolfsburg between 2008 and 2011. The Italian center-back was a rock in defense, and his excellent reading of the game and ability to anticipate danger made him one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga during his time at the club. Barzagli was also a key member of the Italy national team that won the 2006 FIFA World Cup, and his experience and leadership qualities were invaluable to VfL Wolfsburg during his time at the club.
Overall, these defensive stalwarts played a crucial role in VfL Wolfsburg’s success over the years. Their defensive skills, leadership qualities, and ability to contribute to the attack made them valuable assets to the team, and they will always be remembered as some of the best defenders to have ever played for the club.
Goalkeeping Greats
VfL Wolfsburg has had some incredible goalkeepers throughout its history, with many of them playing a pivotal role in the team’s success. Here are some of the most notable goalkeeping greats in the club’s history.
1. Diego Benaglio
Diego Benaglio is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in VfL Wolfsburg’s history. The Swiss international joined the club in 2008 and went on to make over 300 appearances in all competitions. He played a crucial role in the team’s historic Bundesliga title win in 2009, making several crucial saves throughout the season.
2. Simon Jentzsch
Simon Jentzsch is another goalkeeper who left a lasting impression at VfL Wolfsburg. The German shot-stopper joined the club in 2006 and spent six seasons at the Volkswagen Arena. He played a key role in the team’s Bundesliga triumph in 2009, making several important saves in the latter stages of the season.
3. Andre Lenz
Andre Lenz is a former VfL Wolfsburg goalkeeper who played for the club between 1996 and 2003. He made over 200 appearances in all competitions and was a key member of the team that won promotion to the Bundesliga in 1997. Lenz was known for his commanding presence in the penalty area and his excellent shot-stopping abilities.
4. Marwin Hitz
Marwin Hitz is a Swiss goalkeeper who played for VfL Wolfsburg between 2008 and 2013. He made over 50 appearances for the club and was known for his excellent reflexes and shot-stopping abilities. Hitz was also a key member of the team that won the Bundesliga title in 2009.
These goalkeepers have left a lasting legacy at VfL Wolfsburg and will always be remembered as some of the best players to have ever played for the club.
Club Icons
VfL Wolfsburg has had many iconic players throughout its history. These are the players who have made a significant impact on the club’s success and are remembered fondly by fans.
One such player is Diego Benaglio, who holds the record for the most appearances by a goalkeeper for the club. He played for Wolfsburg for nine seasons and helped the team win their first-ever Bundesliga title in the 2008-2009 season. Benaglio was known for his exceptional shot-stopping abilities and his leadership on the pitch.
Another club icon is Edin Dzeko, who played for Wolfsburg from 2007 to 2011. Dzeko was the top scorer in the Bundesliga during the 2008-2009 season, scoring 26 goals in 32 appearances. He was instrumental in helping Wolfsburg win their first-ever Bundesliga title that season. Dzeko’s ability to score goals from anywhere on the pitch made him a fan favorite at Wolfsburg.
Kevin De Bruyne is another player who is considered a club icon, despite only playing for Wolfsburg for one season. De Bruyne joined Wolfsburg in 2014 and had a phenomenal season, scoring 10 goals and providing 21 assists in 34 appearances. His performances earned him the Bundesliga Player of the Season award and a big-money move to Manchester City the following season.
These players are just a few of the many club icons that have played for VfL Wolfsburg over the years. Their contributions to the club’s success will always be remembered by fans, and they will forever hold a special place in Wolfsburg’s history.
Impact Substitutes
In addition to the starting lineup, VfL Wolfsburg has had some exceptional impact substitutes over the years. These players have come off the bench to turn the tide of a game, scoring crucial goals or making game-changing plays.
One of the most notable impact substitutes for VfL Wolfsburg was Bas Dost. The Dutch striker was often brought on in the second half to provide a spark to the team’s attack. Dost had a knack for scoring important goals, and he played a key role in Wolfsburg’s successful 2014-15 season, which saw them finish second in the Bundesliga and win the DFB-Pokal.
Another impact substitute who made a significant contribution to VfL Wolfsburg was Ivica Olic. The Croatian forward was a versatile player who could play on either wing or up front, and he was known for his tireless work rate and ability to create chances for himself and his teammates. Olic played for Wolfsburg from 2012 to 2015, and he scored some crucial goals off the bench during that time, including a late winner against Borussia Dortmund in the 2015 DFB-Pokal final.
Max Kruse was another player who made a significant impact as a substitute for VfL Wolfsburg. The German forward was a prolific scorer who could change a game with a single moment of brilliance. Kruse played for Wolfsburg from 2015 to 2016, and he scored 11 goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances, many of which came as a substitute.
Overall, VfL Wolfsburg has had some exceptional impact substitutes over the years, and these players have played a crucial role in the team’s success. Whether it’s scoring crucial goals or making game-changing plays, these substitutes have proven time and time again that they can make a difference when it matters most.
Captains and Leaders
Throughout the history of VfL Wolfsburg, there have been several players who have stepped up to lead the team both on and off the pitch. These players have been instrumental in guiding the team through difficult times and achieving success in various competitions.
One of the most notable captains in the history of the club is Marcel Schäfer. The left-back was a fan favorite and a true leader on the pitch. He captained the team for several seasons and played a key role in the club’s first-ever Bundesliga title win in 2009. Schäfer was also known for his versatility and ability to play in multiple positions, which made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Another player who made a significant impact as a captain is Josué. The Brazilian midfielder was a fierce competitor and a natural leader. He captained the team during the 2008-2009 season and was a key player in the club’s Bundesliga title win that year. Josué was known for his work rate, physicality, and ability to control the midfield.
In addition to these two captains, there have been several other players who have shown leadership qualities throughout the years. Grafite, for example, was a prolific striker who led the team in scoring during the 2008-2009 season. He was known for his ability to score in clutch situations and his leadership on the pitch.
Overall, VfL Wolfsburg has been fortunate to have several players who have stepped up to lead the team when it mattered most. These captains and leaders have played a crucial role in the club’s success over the years and will always be remembered by fans as true legends of the game.
Top Scorers
VfL Wolfsburg has had many talented players over the years, but some have stood out for their ability to score goals. The top scorers in the club’s history are a mix of German and international players, and they have all contributed to the team’s success.
One of the most prolific goal scorers in VfL Wolfsburg’s history is Grafite. The Brazilian striker played for the club from 2007 to 2011 and scored an impressive 59 goals in 103 appearances. His most memorable season was the 2008-2009 campaign when he scored 28 goals to help Wolfsburg win the Bundesliga title. Grafite’s partnership with Edin Dzeko was one of the deadliest in the league, and the two strikers were instrumental in Wolfsburg’s success that season.
Another player who deserves a mention is Edin Dzeko. The Bosnian striker played for Wolfsburg from 2007 to 2011 and scored 66 goals in 111 appearances. He formed a deadly partnership with Grafite and helped the team win the Bundesliga title in the 2008-2009 season. Dzeko’s ability to score from long range and his aerial prowess made him a constant threat in front of goal.
Kevin De Bruyne may not have spent as much time at VfL Wolfsburg as Grafite and Dzeko, but he still managed to leave a lasting impression. The Belgian midfielder played for the club in the 2014-2015 season and scored 10 goals in 34 appearances. He was instrumental in Wolfsburg’s run to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League that season and was named the Bundesliga’s Player of the Season. De Bruyne’s ability to score and create goals made him one of the most complete midfielders in the league.
These three players are just a few of the top scorers in VfL Wolfsburg’s history. They have all left their mark on the club and will be remembered for their ability to find the back of the net.
Fan Favorites
When it comes to fan favorites, there are a few VfL Wolfsburg players that stand out from the rest. One of them is Grafite, who is considered one of the best strikers in the club’s history. He was instrumental in helping Wolfsburg win their first and only Bundesliga title in the 2008-2009 season. His partnership with Edin Dzeko was one of the most lethal in the league, and the two of them combined to score an incredible 54 goals that season.
Another player who is beloved by Wolfsburg fans is Kevin De Bruyne. Although he only spent one season with the club, he made a huge impact during that time. He was named the Bundesliga Player of the Year in the 2014-2015 season and helped Wolfsburg finish second in the league. His performances earned him a big-money move to Manchester City, where he has continued to excel.
Fans also have a soft spot for Diego, who played for Wolfsburg from 2010 to 2014. The Brazilian attacking midfielder was known for his technical ability and creativity on the ball. He was a key player in Wolfsburg’s run to the Champions League quarter-finals in the 2014-2015 season, scoring a crucial goal in the round of 16 against Sporting Lisbon.
Overall, these players are just a few examples of the many talented individuals who have donned the green and white of VfL Wolfsburg over the years. Their contributions to the club will never be forgotten, and they will always hold a special place in the hearts of Wolfsburg fans around the world.
Record Setters
VfL Wolfsburg has had many talented players throughout its history, but some have stood out for their exceptional performances and record-setting achievements. In this section, we will take a look at some of the best record setters in the history of VfL Wolfsburg.
Top Goal Scorers
One of the most important records in football is the number of goals scored by a player. VfL Wolfsburg has had many great goal scorers over the years, but one player stands out above the rest: Grafite. The Brazilian striker scored 28 goals in the 2008-2009 season, setting a new record for the most goals scored in a single Bundesliga season by a foreign player. His partnership with Edin Dzeko was one of the most lethal in the league, and together they helped Wolfsburg win their first-ever Bundesliga title.
Another notable goal scorer for VfL Wolfsburg is Edin Dzeko. The Bosnian striker scored 66 goals in 111 appearances for the club, making him the all-time top scorer for Wolfsburg. He was also the joint top scorer in the Bundesliga in the 2009-2010 season, along with Bayern Munich’s Thomas Muller.
Most Appearances
In addition to goal scorers, VfL Wolfsburg has had many players who have made a significant number of appearances for the club. The player with the most appearances for Wolfsburg is Marcel Schäfer, who played 256 games for the club between 2007 and 2017. Schäfer was a versatile player who could play in defense or midfield, and he was known for his leadership qualities and work ethic.
Another player who made a significant number of appearances for Wolfsburg is Diego Benaglio. The Swiss goalkeeper played 262 games for the club between 2008 and 2017, making him the foreign player with the most appearances for Wolfsburg. Benaglio was a key player for Wolfsburg during their title-winning season in 2008-2009, and he was known for his commanding presence in goal.
Conclusion
VfL Wolfsburg has had many great players over the years, but the record setters stand out for their exceptional performances and achievements. From the top goal scorers to the players with the most appearances, these players have left their mark on the history of VfL Wolfsburg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are considered the greatest players in VfL Wolfsburg’s history?
Over the years, VfL Wolfsburg has had many great players who have contributed to the club’s success. Some of the most celebrated players include Diego Benaglio, Grafite, Edin Dzeko, and Kevin De Bruyne.
Which VfL Wolfsburg player holds the record for most goals scored for the club?
The record for the most goals scored for VfL Wolfsburg is held by Edin Dzeko. The Bosnian striker scored 66 goals in 111 appearances for the club between 2007 and 2011.
What are some notable transfers from VfL Wolfsburg to Arsenal or Juventus?
Two of the most notable transfers from VfL Wolfsburg to Arsenal are that of Brazilian midfielder Gilberto Silva in 2008 and German defender Per Mertesacker in 2011. As for Juventus, the club signed Croatian striker Mario Mandzukic from VfL Wolfsburg in 2012.
Can you list any VfL Wolfsburg players who have made a significant impact at Fiorentina?
One player who made a significant impact at Fiorentina after leaving VfL Wolfsburg is Juan Cuadrado. The Colombian winger joined Fiorentina in 2012 and helped the club reach the Europa League semifinals in the 2013-14 season.
Who has been the most influential VfL Wolfsburg player in recent seasons?
Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is widely regarded as the most influential VfL Wolfsburg player in recent seasons. He played a crucial role in the club’s 2014-15 season, where they finished as runners-up in the Bundesliga and won the DFB-Pokal.
What is the significance of the rivalry between VfL Wolfsburg and other clubs?
VfL Wolfsburg has developed rivalries with several clubs over the years, including Hannover 96 and Eintracht Braunschweig. However, their biggest rivalry is with fellow Lower Saxony club, SV Werder Bremen. The rivalry stems from the clubs’ geographical proximity and intense competition for regional dominance.
