World Cup stars of the Bundesliga: Hoffenheim's Vladimír Coufal
Vladimír Coufal has proven to be a fantastic addition to the Hoffenheim squad, helping them return to European football during his first season at the club. Now, he goes to the FIFA World Cup 2026 as one of Czechia's leaders as they participate in the showpiece for the first time in 20 years.
Name: Vladimír Coufal
Club: Hoffenheim
Nation: Czechia
International debut: 11 November 2017
Caps: 62
Goals: Two
Stats correct as of 11 June 2026
How was his 2025/26 season?
Coufal enjoyed a stellar first season at Hoffenheim following his switch from West Ham United last summer. The right-back started every single one of his team's 34 league games, playing an important role for Christian Ilzer's side all over the pitch.
Not only did he cover the second most distance of any player in the division and recorded the most intensive runs, he chipped in with an impressive eight assists - second only to Bazoumana Toure at Hoffenheim. Thanks in part to his contributions, the Sinsheim outfit qualified for the UEFA Europa League after only narrowly avoiding relegation in 2024/25.
Watch: The best of Coufal
What he brings to the national team
At 33 years of age, Coufal comes into this tournament as one of Czechia's elder statesmen - only two men in the squad have managed more than his 62 caps. He didn't make his debut until he was 24, but since 2022 he has made the right-back spot his own.
While he is unlikely to be as offensively minded on the international stage, his energy and endeavour are important assets for Czechia. Coufal also takes a mean throw-in, which could be a weapon for his nation this summer.
What his coaches say
"His first question to me when I met him personally was: 'Coach, do you think you can compete for a top-six finish?' He is incredibly success-oriented. Irrespective of his age, he delivers a high level of quality in all his endeavors." - Hoffenheim head coach Christian Ilzer
