Holstein Kiel Face DFB-Pokal Test Amid Major Stadium Redevelopment Plans
KIEL, 4 February 2026 – Holstein Kiel find themselves at a pivotal crossroads this week as they balance a high-stakes DFB-Pokal quarter-final against VfB Stuttgart with the announcement of a transformative €78 million (£65 million) stadium renovation project.
Stuttgart Challenge in the DFB-Pokal
The Storks are set to host defending DFB-Pokal champions VfB Stuttgart today at the Holstein-Stadion. Despite their current position in the lower half of the 2. Bundesliga table, Kiel have enjoyed a resilient cup run. However, head coach Marcel Rapp faces significant selection headaches. The club has confirmed that Alexander Bernhardsson, Patrick Erras, and Carl Johansson are all sidelined due to injury.
Kiel enter the fixture following a narrow 1-2 defeat at home to SpVgg Greuther Fürth on 31 January 2026. While league form has been inconsistent, the cup provides a platform for the Northern German side to cause an upset against a Stuttgart team determined to reach the semi-finals for a second consecutive year.
Winter Transfer Activity and Squad Depth
The January transfer window saw Kiel bolster their ranks to secure their 2. Bundesliga status. The club completed the signing of Jeremy Dudziak from Hertha BSC, with the midfielder’s contract now running until June 2026. Additionally, the squad has been strengthened by the arrival of Umut Tohumçu on loan from Bundesliga side Hoffenheim.
€78 Million Stadium Transformation
Off the pitch, the club has unveiled ambitious plans for a “most extensive redevelopment” of their home ground. The €78 million project aims to modernise the Holstein-Stadion and increase its capacity by 50 per cent. Club officials described the renovation as a vital signal for the future of Kiel’s sports infrastructure, ensuring the “traditional” club remains competitive in the professional German landscape regardless of league standing.
Key Match Statistics and Recent Form
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current League Position | 11th (2. Bundesliga) |
| Last Result | 1-2 vs SpVgg Greuther Fürth (31 January 2026) |
| Upcoming Fixture | vs VfB Stuttgart (DFB-Pokal Quarter-final) |
| Key Absentees | Bernhardsson, Erras, Johansson (Injury) |
| Stadium Project Cost | Approx. €78,000,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Holstein Kiel sign in the January transfer window?
Kiel secured Jeremy Dudziak on a permanent deal from Hertha BSC and brought in Umut Tohumçu on loan from TSG Hoffenheim to strengthen their midfield options.
What is the status of the Holstein-Stadion renovation?
The club has committed to a €78 million redevelopment plan that will increase the stadium’s capacity by 50 per cent, aimed at modernising the facility for long-term professional use.
How did Holstein Kiel perform in their last league match?
Holstein Kiel suffered a 1-2 home defeat against SpVgg Greuther Fürth on 31 January 2026, leaving them in 11th place in the 2. Bundesliga standings.