Straight in at the deep end

Less than 48 hours had passed in January 2024 when Vogt, who had just joined Union, was already in the starting line-up and helping to secure an important goalless draw against SC Freiburg. With experience from over 300 Bundesliga matches, he marshalled the lines, helped his teammates and was a regular in the team that secured its place in the league at the end of the season – once again against Freiburg.

He was also an important part of Union's defence in the first half of last season and even broke his own goal drought in the 2-1 home win against Borussia Dortmund.

The 33-year-old made 36 appearances for 1. FC Union Berlin. But now a new chapter begins for Vogt in his old home, VfL, the place where he turned professional, made his Bundesliga debut in 2009 and played 115 games for various age groups.

Reactions to the transfer

"The past year and a half here at Union has been very intense, especially the first half of the season with the last-minute survival,” said Vogt on his departure. “I am glad that I was able to support the team and the club and will always look back on this time with great pride. I associate my entire youth and my home with VfL Bochum, so I am very happy to be returning."

“Kevin is a professional,” said Union’s director of men’s professional football, Horst Heldt. “You could see that when he played straight after his transfer and in the phases that followed. His experience on and off the pitch was a great asset to our team, so we thank him for his commitment and his performances and wish him all the best at VfL and for the future.”