By Oliver Trust
BERLIN, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Serhou Guirassy appears to be redefining the usual boundaries of football.
The 27-year-old might have been taken aback when he received an unusual gift after netting three goals, ensuring his team's 3-1 victory over Mainz 05.
With the nod from VfB Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeness, a large box containing a sugary soft drink was delivered to the locker room, ending up right in front of Guirassy.
While most sports professionals typically avoid sugary drinks, the 41-year-old Hoeness made an exception for the striker's exceptional performance.
Guirassy became the first top-tier player to score eight goals in the first five games of a season in 56 years.
The Stuttgart forward's performance solidified his club's position among the top four in the German league.
VfB Stuttgart's decision to decline lucrative offers for Guirassy in recent months seems justified, especially given the international interest he has garnered. After Stuttgart's nine million euros investment, he extended his contract until 2026, which includes an exit clause reportedly valued at 15 million euros.
"I feel in the shape of my lifetime. I've never scored this many goals," Guirassy said, his eyes twinkling after his first sip of the lemonade.
Considering his pivotal role in helping Stuttgart avoid relegation last season, his current form isn't surprising. In the previous league campaign, the French-born forward netted eleven goals in 22 matches and provided one assist, even after a lengthy injury hiatus.
Hoeness described him as a "complete striker," noting that Guirassy possesses a strong left and right foot, exceptional heading skills, and impeccable technique.
As the team's primary forward, Guirassy often initiates Stuttgart's attacks, leveraging his physical prowess to retain ball possession.
Statistics position him as the current top striker, with all eight of his on-target shots finding the back of the net. On average, he scores every 42 minutes, outpacing Bayern's Three-Lions star Harry Kane (86 minutes) and PSG sensation Kylian Mbappe (44 minutes).
Born in southern France, Guirassy climbed through the second league but took time to make his mark at the top level. After three underwhelming years in Cologne, he returned to France until Stuttgart recognized his potential and secured him as a nine-million-euro acquisition in 2022.
Hoeness expressed satisfaction with Guirassy's commitment, stating, "There were opportunities for him to leave, but he saw greater value in staying and continuing to develop in a team that truly values him. It's evident he's content with his decision." ■
