Sebastian Hoeneß: A Rising Tactician in Modern Football
Player freedom, creativity, and structure.
For many football fans, Sebastian Hoeneß might not yet be a household name—and understandably so. At 42, the VfB Stuttgart manager is still building his reputation in top-level football. Despite having only five years of managerial experience at the highest level, including roles with Bayern Munich’s reserve team and TSG Hoffenheim, Hoeneß has already emerged as a tactician to watch.
With an impressive lineage and a clear knack for success, Hoeneß has guided Stuttgart from the brink of relegation to memorable UEFA Champions League nights. His journey and tactical evolution shed light on the modern demands of football management.
Tactical Inspirations and Philosophy
After parting ways with Hoffenheim, Hoeneß delved deeply into the study of football tactics. He spent time analysing match footage and shadowing Julian Nagelsmann at Bayern Munich. A significant turning point came during a trip to Brighton, where he observed Roberto De Zerbi’s innovative use of small spaces and nuanced tempo manipulation—insights that heavily influenced his tactical outlook.
However, Hoeneß repeatedly credits Pep Guardiola as his foremost inspiration. “His football was incredible,” Hoeneß once said, reflecting on Guardiola’s time at Bayern. “The control they had—opponents weren’t even allowed to breathe.” During his pro-licence course, Hoeneß had the unique opportunity to interact with Guardiola, gaining valuable insights into tactical nuances like full-backs moving into midfield and the importance of players enjoying their time on the ball.
A Blend of Philosophies: Crafting a Unique Identity
Hoeneß’ tactical identity is a hybrid of influences from some of football’s most innovative minds. Early in his coaching career, he worked under Ralf Rangnick at RB Leipzig, where he oversaw the U-17 and U-19 teams. This exposed him to the Red Bull philosophy of "controlled chaos," a high-intensity, pressing-based approach.
He later combined this foundation with Guardiola’s possession-driven principles, allowing him to create a style that merges structured build-up with dynamic fluidity.
One of Hoeneß’ most notable achievements came at Bayern Munich’s reserve team. Taking over a squad that had just been promoted to Germany’s third division, he turned a relegation-threatened side into title winners, showcasing his adaptability and tactical acumen.
In Possession
Stuttgart’s in-possession approach under Hoeneß is rooted in control, creativity, and precision. The system prioritises shorter passing, playing out from the back, and narrow width, ensuring a possession-based style that thrives on technical excellence.
The build-up begins with defenders, who are instructed to avoid aimless clearances. Instead, they methodically progress the ball forward, retaining possession and dictating the game’s tempo. This foundation of control minimises turnovers and fosters composure.
“I like to see wild moments, and players to be liberated to a certain extent and make their own decisions in the right moments and let their creativity run free. It's about having a certain structure, but of course it's also very much about attitude and mentality’’.
Hoeneß adds a layer of expressiveness to this structure, encouraging players to take risks and attempt unpredictable plays to break down opposition defences. While creative freedom is key, Stuttgart retains a fallback on well-rehearsed structures, balancing flair with discipline.
Narrow width further defines the team’s style, focusing play through central areas. This compactness facilitates quick combinations, sustains control in tight spaces, and allows Stuttgart to dominate the midfield—where games are often decided.
Out of Possession
Hoeneß’ defensive philosophy is rooted in aggression and high energy. Stuttgart employs a high defensive line, compressing the field and denying opponents the space to build attacks. This positioning supports an intense pressing game that disrupts opposition rhythm and forces errors.
The high press ensures that players aggressively close down the ball immediately after losing possession. Combined with instructions to prevent short goalkeeper distribution, Stuttgart forces opponents into playing long passes, creating opportunities to win aerial duels or intercept second balls.
This relentless approach not only regains possession quickly but also positions Stuttgart to launch rapid transitions. By turning defence into attack with speed and intent, the team capitalises on opposition disorganisation, creating high-quality chances.
THE TACTIC
A Tactical Evolution Worth Watching
Sebastian Hoeneß’ managerial journey exemplifies the evolution of a modern coach. Blending elements from Guardiola, Rangnick, and De Zerbi, and refining them through hands-on experience, he has developed a distinct tactical identity.
Under his guidance, Stuttgart has undergone a remarkable transformation, combining artistry in possession with disciplined aggression out of it. With his innovative approach, Hoeneß has established himself as one of football’s most intriguing tacticians, capable of shaping Stuttgart’s rise and leaving a lasting imprint on the game.