Paredes Returns to Wolfsburg Bench After Long Injury Layoff
American winger Kevin Paredes made his long-awaited return to the Wolfsburg squad on Friday, appearing on the bench for the first time this season in their 1-0 defeat to Heidenheim. Since preseason, the 21-year-old had been sidelined with a foot fracture, leaving a significant gap in Wolfsburg's wing options.
Paredes' last match action came during a club friendly against Brentford on August 9, 2024. His last competitive appearances date back to the 2024 Olympics, when he impressed with two goals and an assist across four matches for the United States.
The timing of his injury was particularly unfortunate as coach Ralph Hasenhüttl had reportedly planned a more prominent role for Paredes following his Olympic performance. After joining Wolfsburg from D.C. United in January 2022 for $7.35 million, Paredes had established himself with 55 total appearances for the German club.
While Paredes didn't see playing time against Heidenheim, his return provides a welcome boost to Wolfsburg who currently sit seventh in the Bundesliga table. The club will likely ease him back gradually, but his availability could prove vital for their European qualification hopes with important fixtures on the horizon, beginning with Sunday's match against Union Berlin.
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