VfL Wolfsburg’s Amoura Shines with $17M Deal Amid Language Barriers

WOLFSBURG, Germany — Algerian forward Amoura has become a pivotal figure for VfL Wolfsburg, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in the Bundesliga this season. The club has reportedly invested €17 million to secure his loan and subsequent permanent transfer, with a contract extending until 2029.

Amoura, known for his blistering speed and technical prowess, has quickly adapted to the demands of German football. Despite his on-field success, the 24-year-old faces challenges off the pitch, particularly with language barriers. Fluent only in an Algerian Arabic dialect, Amoura struggles with German, English, and even French, limiting his ability to communicate with teammates and media.

“He’s already a weapon for us,” said Wolfsburg coach Ralph Hasenhüttl. “We manage to communicate through body language, smiles, and gestures. He understands when I’m not happy.”

Amoura’s impact will be crucial as Wolfsburg faces Holstein Kiel in a key Bundesliga match. Kiel, recently promoted to the league, has bolstered its defense with the signing of Croatian Ivan Nekic, their third winter transfer. Coach Marcel Rapp emphasized the need for his team to stay focused against Wolfsburg’s attacking threat.

Hasenhüttl warned against underestimating Kiel, currently second-to-last in the standings. “Everyone thinks this is a must-win game, but that’s far from the truth,” he said. “Kiel never gives up and keeps pushing. We need a highly concentrated performance.”

With both teams fighting for different goals — Wolfsburg aiming for European qualification and Kiel battling relegation — the match promises high stakes. Amoura, despite his communication hurdles, remains central to Wolfsburg’s ambitions. “We have a good chance,” Hasenhüttl added, “but there’s still a long way to go.”