Deniz Undav Joins German National Squad After Stellar Bundesliga Performance, Joking About Catching Harry Kane

Stuttgart forward Deniz Undav enjoyed an exceptionally successful final Bundesliga game before joining Julian Nagelsmann's German national team. In Sunday's dominant 5-2 away win against Augsburg, the 29-year-old netted two goals and provided an assist, bringing his season total to 18 league goals. This places him second in the league's scoring charts, trailing only Bayern Munich's prolific Harry Kane, who has 31 goals. Undav humorously acknowledged this discrepancy.

Stuttgart's trip to Augsburg, located just over the Bavarian border, proved to be a thoroughly successful outing. Other key contributors included Undav's teammates and fellow national team hopefuls, Chris Führich and Maximilian Mittelstädt, both of whom registered assists. Danish player Nikolas Nartey, making a notable return, also found the back of the net, while Angelo Stiller, anticipated to soon join Undav in the DFB squad, contributed an assist.

However, for Undav, who was undoubtedly the star of the match, the victory's most significant aspect might have been helping his Bundesliga club move past the disappointing Europa League elimination they suffered on Thursday. Undav was eager to share his thoughts and relief post-match.

Undav's Post-Match Reflections

"We aimed to channel that frustration," Undav explained, referring to their mid-week loss. "For my first goal, I maintained my composure. Regarding the second, I advised Chris Führich [who initially missed a shot, leading to Undav's tap-in] to pass. And my assist [for Ermedin Demirovic's goal] demonstrates that I'm not self-centered."

Undav's comments about his contributions were delivered with his characteristic humor. Those unfamiliar with the German striker might not immediately grasp his playful nature. Since his return to Germany in 2023, Undav has become known as something of a "clown prince" in German football.

He continued his lighthearted remarks throughout the evening.

"I'm still planning to catch Harry Kane!" Undav quipped, laughing. "But you can see my selflessness. Other players might have attempted a shot for a hat-trick [referring to Demirovic's goal], but team spirit takes precedence. Giving up a personal scoring opportunity for the team – what could be more rewarding?"

"When I'm on the field, I strive to perform well and score," Undav concluded, looking ahead to his international commitments. "I'm eager to play, but the final decision rests with the national team coach."