The energy was electric at Stuttgart's public training session, with packed stands and roaring applause setting the stage for a massive Bundesliga weekend. Head coach Sebastian Hoeneß used the vibrant atmosphere to fine-tune his squad for a classic German showdown: the arrival of historic rivals Hamburger SV this Sunday.

For VfB striker Ermedin Demirovic, this fixture carries profound personal weight. Born in Hamburg, the 28-year-old attacker honed his skills throughout his entire youth career in the famed HSV academy. Having missed the tense 2-1 reverse fixture defeat due to injury, Demirovic is now fully fit and desperate to step onto the pitch against his boyhood club.

"It will be the first time I can play against HSV in the Bundesliga," Demirovic told club media. "We will try to make sure the game goes our way this time. Even though I naturally have a soft spot for HSV because of my past, the only thing that matters is delivering a successful performance with VfB."

Stuttgart heads into the clash in an enviable position, with coach Hoeneß enjoying a nearly fully fit squad. This depth creates healthy internal competition, providing an extra edge as the team prepares. Demirovic struck a determined tone, emphasizing the power of home support: "A lot is at stake for us, and we know what we are capable of. With our fans behind us, we want to keep the next Bundesliga points in Stuttgart."