Stefan Effenberg will receive the No. 10 jersey at VfL Wolfsburg at the request of the club's former star whose career was cut short by a fatal neurological illness.
The request of Krzysztof Nowak, a former Polish national player, was announced at the press conference for Effenberg Monday.
It drew more than 50 journalists with 400 fans waiting outside the center to see the former Bayern Munich star. Nowak, 26, has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive, fatal disease that has already put him in a wheelchair. The No. 10, which he wore and traditionally is given the team leader, was supposed to be retired in his honor.
"I regard this as a big honor," Effenberg said.
The surprise signing on Friday of one of Germany's biggest stars has electrified the small club and its fans. VfL Wolfsburg, though an established Bundesliga club, has always been regarded as colorless, known mostly for being owned by Volkswagen, whose headquarters are located in the North German city.
"I'm sure I can make some things happen here. Finishing fifth or sixth is possible," said the 34-year-old midfielder.
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