Union’s 2020 signing Deniz Undav shines at World Cup

Deniz Undav, 29, scored a goal and provided two assists after coming off the bench against Curaçao, sparking debate over his place in Germany's World Cup starting XI. The performance has intensified calls for him to start in the upcoming match against Ivory Coast.

Chris O’Loughlin, sport director of Union, signed Undav in 2020, bringing him from SV Meppen and pulling him out of the German third division. O’Loughlin says Union rescued him from a "vergeetput" and gave him a platform to develop.

Between 2020 and 2022 Undav recorded 45 goals and 18 assists in 70 Union matches. In his three seasons with VfB Stuttgart he added 57 goals and 30 assists.

Union identified Undav through an advanced data system that highlighted his off‑the‑ball runs and quick footwork. O’Loughlin recalls watching him sprint from a defensive corner to the 16‑metre spot, a mentality he valued.

To convince Undav, O’Loughlin drove four hours to Meppen, noting that Union was then a "nobody" while the player was used to crowds of 11,000‑12,000 in the third tier. The club promised a supportive environment, including regular visits from his future wife.

O’Loughlin quoted, “Deniz finds the ball or the ball finds Deniz – and then he scores.” He also described Undav as “energiek en leuk”, saying he brightens any locker room and treats staff politely.

After ten caps for the German national team, Undav already has seven goals and four assists, mirroring his Union output. Coach Julian Nagelsmann still favours Kai Havertz, Florian Wirtz, Leroy Sané and Jamal Musiala for the World Cup starting XI.

Union also celebrates former players Promise David (Canada), Kevin Rodriguez (Ecuador) and Besfort Zeneli (Sweden) appearing at the World Cup. The story was reported by Bart Fieremans of and illustrated with a photo by Wim Kempenaers.