Kevin Grosskreutz is a man used to controversy. From urinating in a hotel lobby to being charged with assault for throwing a kebab at a Cologne fan, the World Cup winner is known for causing a stir.
However, it appears that controversy has finally got the better of him.
Earlier this week, Grosskreutz’s was hospitalised after being beaten up on a night out with youth team players from his club Stuttgart. It was unclear why he had been involved in an altercation or who was involved but, after developments on Friday, it is clear that the incident has had a detrimental effect on his career.
At press conference on Friday morning, Grosskreutz and Stuttgart Sporting Director Jan Schindelmeiser confirmed that a mutual decision to terminate the player’s contract had been reached.
The former Borussia Dortmund man also revealed that he would be taking a break from football, which may potentially lead to his full retirement, asking the media to respect his privacy and leave him and his family alone.
“I want to calm down now and don’t want to have anything to do with professional football for the moment. Please leave me and my family alone.”
Despite revealing the decision of the defenders release, vague answer about the incident itself has left us all wondering what actually happened.
When asked about the altercation, Schindelmeiser gave the following answer.
“I cannot and should not say anything about it. We have agreed to this within the scope of our contract resolution.”
Despite receiving the beating it would appear that Grosskreutz was at fault for the incident, saying himself that,
“I’ve made a mistake, I’m very sorry. I accept the consequences and regret my time at VfB so far.”
Little more was said by Grosskreutz about the attack, preferring to repeatedly thank the club, the supporters and his team mates, leaving many to believe that the true cause is being covered up.
Stuttgart head coach Hannes Wolf then added more fuel to the fire, telling the clubs official website that,
“After the incident, the only logical step is the ending of the collaboration with Kevin.
“This is not a simple situation for us all. Nevertheless, it is important now that we shape the immediate future for VfB and concentrate as quickly as possible on the difficult game in Braunschweig.”
Some reports have stated that a group of four teenagers, aged between 16 and 19, were the ones who beat the German World Cup winner, something that was later confirmed by police.
There has been claims that youth players Grosskreutz was with were among the four but, there is little traction to these rumours and it appears very unlikely as they would likely have been released along with the two times Bundesliga champion.
Grosskreutz intends to press charges against his attackers.
For now Grosskreutz will spend time with his family, away from football, away from the spotlight and away from the prying eyes of the media.
Due to the severity of the incident, I am sure that answers will be given eventually, either from the police, Stuttgart or Grosskreutz himself but, it is an incident that will likely forever tarnish the fan favourite status the player has in his homeland.
A sad ending to a career of such a loved and successful player.