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Philipp Hofmann
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Philipp Hofmann (born 30 March 1993) is a German professional footballer who plays as a forward for 2. Bundesliga club VfL Bochum.
Key Information
Hofmann is a product of the Schalke 04 academy and made his professional breakthrough away from the club on loan, before transferring to 1. FC Kaiserslautern in 2014. Following two years in England with Brentford between 2015 and 2017, he returned to Germany and forged a career in the 2. Bundesliga with Greuther Fürth, Eintracht Braunschweig and Karlsruher SC. An average of a goal every other game during three seasons with Karlsruher SC led to a transfer to the Bundesliga with VfL Bochum in 2022. Hofmann scored 18 goals in 36 caps for Germany between U18 and U21 level.
Club career
[edit]Schalke 04
[edit]A forward, Hofmann began his career as a youth with local clubs RW Wenholthausen and SC Neheim, before signing for Bundesliga club Schalke 04 in 2009.[3] He won the Westfalenpokalsieger with the U19 team in the 2010–11 season and the U19 Bundesliga the following year.[3] He made 24 appearances for the reserve team in the 2011–12 season, scoring six goals.[4] Hofmann won his first and only first team call up for a dead rubber Europa League match versus Maccabi Haifa on 14 December 2011 and remained an unused substitute during the 3–0 victory.[4]
Hofmann spent the 2012–13 season on loan with 2. Bundesliga club SC Paderborn 07 and made the first professional appearance of his career in a 4–0 victory over VfL Bochum on 11 August 2012,[4] as a late substitute for Diego Demme.[5] He made 31 appearances and scored six goals during a mid-table season.[4][6] On 14 July 2013, Hofmann joined 2. Bundesliga club FC Ingolstadt 04 on a two-year loan.[7] He made 33 appearances and scored 9 goals during the 2013–14 season and notably scored two hat-tricks in three Regionalliga Bayern appearances for the reserves.[4] Hofmann's loan was terminated at the end of the 2013–14 season and he departed Schalke on 5 June 2014.[8]
1. FC Kaiserslautern
[edit]Hofmann transferred to 2. Bundesliga club 1. FC Kaiserslautern on 5 June 2014.[8] He began the 2014–15 season in a substitute role and scored on his debut in a 3–2 win over TSV 1860 Munich on 4 August 2014,[4] scoring the winner just a minute after replacing the scorer of the Red Devils' opening two goals, Srđan Lakić.[9] Hofmann won unfortunate media attention for missing a certain goalscoring opportunity from one yard versus Union Berlin on 24 September,[10][11] but was spared his blushes after Union failed to cancel out Alexander Ring's first half goal.[12] Hofmann failed to come into regular goalscoring form and finished the 2014–15 season with 32 appearances and 9 goals as the Red Devils finished just two points shy of the promotion playoff place.[4] He departed the Fritz-Walter-Stadion in July 2015.[13]
Brentford
[edit]
On 23 July 2015, Hofmann moved to England to sign a three-year contract with Championship club Brentford, for an undisclosed fee [13] During an injury-hit 2015–16 season,[14][15] Hofmann scored four goals in 22 appearances.[16] He returned free from injury for the 2016–17 pre-season, but began the season overweight and behind Scott Hogan and Lasse Vibe in competition for the team's lone forward role.[17][18] After slimming down and making just five substitute appearances by early December 2016,[18][19] head coach Dean Smith challenged Hofmann to work harder to earn a starting place.[17] Despite the departure of Scott Hogan in January 2017,[20] a niggling back injury and a lack of match fitness rendered Hofmann unable to challenge for a starting berth during the second half of the season.[4][21] He fell behind B team forward Justin Shaibu in the pecking order and finished the season with 11 appearances and no goals.[19] Hofmann departed Brentford in June 2017, after scoring just four goals in 33 appearances during his two seasons at Griffin Park.[22]
Greuther Fürth
[edit]On 13 June 2017, Hofmann returned to Germany to join 2. Bundesliga club Greuther Fürth on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee.[22] After recovering from a medial collateral ligament injury suffered during pre-season,[23] he made his debut for the club in a DFB-Pokal first round match versus SV Morlautern on 13 August 2017 and scored two goals in the 5–0 victory.[4] Prior to the winter break, Hofmann made just 11 appearances (scoring three goals) and departed the Sportpark Ronhof prior to the resumption of the 2017–18 season in January 2018.[4][24]
Eintracht Braunschweig
[edit]On 23 January 2018, Hofmann transferred to 2. Bundesliga club Eintracht Braunschweig on a 2+1⁄2-year contract.[25] He scored 12 goals in 52 appearances before his departure at the end of the 2018–19 season.[4]
Karlsruher SC
[edit]On 11 June 2019, Hofmann transferred to newly promoted 2. Bundesliga club Karlsruher SC on a two-year contract,[2] with one-year option.[26] He scored 53 goals in 104 appearances during three seasons at the Wildparkstadion and was released when his contract expired at the end of the 2021–22 season.[4][27]
VfL Bochum
[edit]On 4 May 2022, Hofmann signed a two-year contract with Bundesliga club VfL Bochum on a free transfer, effective 1 July 2022.[27] He made 37 appearances and scored 9 goals during a 2022–23 season in which the club narrowly avoided the relegation playoffs.[4][28] Hofmann signed a new three-year contract in August 2023 and was added to the team's leadership group.[29][30] The club finished the 2023–24 season in the relegation playoff place and following an own goal in the 3–0 first leg defeat to Fortuna Düsseldorf,[31] Hofmann scored twice in the second leg to help the club to a 3–3 draw on aggregate.[32] He was substituted prior to the deciding shootout, from which VfL Bochum emerged victorious.[32] Hofmann made 32 appearances and scored six goals during the 2023–24 season.[4]
Hofmann continued in his starting role during the first half of the 2024–25 season.[4] On 14 December 2024 and with Bochum having no remaining substitutions, he played the final minutes of a 1–1 draw versus Union Berlin in goal, due to goalkeeper Patrick Drewes leaving the pitch after being hit by an object thrown from the crowd.[33] Hofmann made 33 appearances and scored three goals prior to suffering a season-ending "quite life-threatening" injury during a 0–0 draw with 1. FC Heidenheim on 2 May 2025.[4][34] He broke a rib and suffered a collapsed lung in a collision with Marvin Pieringer and his "lung function was only restored after a minor procedure to drain fluid in his chest".[34] In his absence, the club was relegated to the 2. Bundesliga.[35]
International career
[edit]Hofmann represented Germany between U18 and U21 level.[36] He made his international debut for the U18 team in a 3–2 friendly win over France on 22 March 2011,[37] replacing goalscorer Amin Younes in the second half.[38] He made two further U18 appearances before making his U19 debut with a start in a 5–3 friendly win over Belgium on 1 September 2011,[39] being replaced by Niclas Füllkrug at half time.[40] He scored his first international goal in another friendly three days later, with what looked to be the winner versus rivals the Netherlands,[39] before Ouasim Bouy salvaged a 2–2 draw.[41] Hofmann scored six goals in six games during Germany's unsuccessful qualification period for the 2012 European U19 Championship.[36]
Hofmann scored two goals in four friendly appearances for the U20 team during the 2012–13 season and made his U21 debut in a 4–0 2015 European U21 Championship qualifying win over the Republic of Ireland on 9 September 2013.[36][42] He showed excellent form during the qualifying period, scoring seven goals in 10 games,[43] but he failed to score in his two finals appearances before Germany were humiliated 5–0 by Portugal in the semi-finals.[44] He scored 9 goals in 17 matches at U21 level.[36]
Personal life
[edit]Hofmann attended the Gesamtschule Berger Feld.[45]
Career statistics
[edit]- As of match played 25 January 2026
| Club | Season | League | National cup[a] | League cup[b] | Europe | Other | Total | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Schalke 04 II | 2011–12[4] | Regionalliga West | 24 | 6 | — | — | — | — | 24 | 6 | ||||
| Schalke 04 | 2011–12[4] | Bundesliga | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | ||
| SC Paderborn (loan) | 2012–13[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 30 | 6 | 1 | 0 | — | — | — | 31 | 6 | |||
| FC Ingolstadt 04 (loan) | 2013–14[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 31 | 8 | 2 | 1 | — | — | — | 33 | 9 | |||
| FC Ingolstadt 04 II (loan) | 2013–14[4] | Regionalliga Bayern | 3 | 6 | — | — | — | — | 3 | 6 | ||||
| 1. FC Kaiserslautern II | 2014–15[4] | Regionalliga Südwest | 2 | 1 | — | — | — | — | 2 | 1 | ||||
| 1. FC Kaiserslautern | 2014–15[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 29 | 6 | 3 | 3 | — | — | — | 32 | 9 | |||
| Brentford | 2015–16[16] | Championship | 21 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | — | 22 | 4 | ||
| 2016–17[19] | Championship | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 11 | 0 | |||
| Total | 31 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 33 | 4 | ||||
| Greuther Fürth | 2017–18[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 9 | 1 | 2 | 2 | — | — | — | 11 | 3 | |||
| Greuther Fürth II | 2017–18[4] | Regionalliga Bayern | 3 | 2 | — | — | — | — | 3 | 2 | ||||
| Eintracht Braunschweig | 2017–18[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 12 | 1 | — | — | — | — | 12 | 1 | ||||
| 2018–19[4] | 3. Liga | 38 | 10 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 1[c] | 1 | 40 | 11 | |||
| Total | 50 | 11 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 1 | 1 | 52 | 12 | ||||
| Karlsruher SC | 2019–20[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 33 | 17 | 3 | 2 | — | — | — | 36 | 19 | |||
| 2020–21[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 30 | 13 | 1 | 0 | — | — | — | 31 | 13 | ||||
| 2021–22[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 33 | 19 | 4 | 2 | — | — | — | 37 | 21 | ||||
| Total | 96 | 49 | 8 | 4 | — | — | — | 104 | 53 | |||||
| VfL Bochum | 2022–23[4] | Bundesliga | 34 | 8 | 3 | 1 | — | — | — | 37 | 9 | |||
| 2023–24[4] | Bundesliga | 29 | 4 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 2[d] | 2 | 32 | 6 | |||
| 2024–25[4] | Bundesliga | 32 | 3 | 1 | 0 | — | — | — | 33 | 3 | ||||
| 2025–26[4] | 2. Bundesliga | 18 | 4 | 3 | 0 | — | — | — | 21 | 4 | ||||
| Total | 113 | 19 | 7 | 2 | — | — | 2 | 2 | 123 | 22 | ||||
| Career total | 417 | 119 | 25 | 11 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 445 | 133 | ||
- ^ Includes DFB-Pokal, FA Cup
- ^ Includes EFL Cup
- ^ Appearance in Lower Saxony Cup
- ^ Appearances in Bundesliga relegation play-offs
References
[edit]- ^ "EFL: Retained list: 2015/16" (PDF). English Football League. p. 9. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2 December 2016. Retrieved 26 June 2016.
- ^ a b "Angreifer Philipp Hofmann wechselt in den Wildpark". www.ksc.de (in German). Retrieved 11 June 2019.
- ^ a b "Schalke 04". Schalke04.de. Archived from the original on 9 October 2017. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah Philipp Hofmann at Soccerway. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Paderborn vs. Bochum – 11 August 2012". Soccerway. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Tables – 2. Bundesliga – Germany – Results, fixtures, tables and news". Soccerway. Retrieved 2 November 2022.
- ^ "Sturmtalent Philipp Hofmann zum FCI". www.fcingolstadt.de. Archived from the original on 7 February 2017. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ a b "U21-Nationalspieler: Hofmann wechselt von Schalke zum FCK". RP Online. 5 June 2014. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Kaiserslautern v TSV 1860 Munich". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ Marioni, Massimo (25 September 2014). "This is the worst open goal miss you will ever see – fact". Metro. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ Sport, Guardian (25 September 2014). "Kaiserslautern's Philipp Hofmann produces spectacular open-goal miss". the Guardian. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Kaiserslautern v FC Union Berlin". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ a b Wickham, Chris. "Brentford sign Philipp Hofmann from 1.FC Kaiserslautern". www.brentfordfc.com. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "September injury update". www.brentfordfc.com. Retrieved 23 September 2015.
- ^ Moore, Tom (31 March 2016). "Brentford's injury crisis has returned with a vengeance". getwestlondon. Retrieved 31 March 2016.
- ^ a b "Games played by Philipp Hofmann in 2015/2016". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ a b Street, Tim (5 December 2016). "Brentford are desperate for goals – so what's happening with the Hoff?". getwestlondon. Retrieved 5 December 2016.
- ^ a b Moore, Tom (31 December 2016). "Smith insists Brentford have had no talks over striker exit". getwestlondon. Retrieved 31 December 2016.
- ^ a b c "Games played by Philipp Hofmann in 2016/2017". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 26 July 2016.
- ^ "Brentford striker Scott Hogan signs for Sky Bet Championship side Aston Villa". Retrieved 20 April 2017.
- ^ Moore, Tom (20 April 2017). "Brentford injury update ahead of QPR contest". getwestlondon. Retrieved 20 April 2017.
- ^ a b "Philipp Hofmann leaves Brentford". Brentford FC. Retrieved 13 June 2017.
- ^ "Expert Column – Preview – Football". The Hong Kong Jockey Club. Retrieved 28 August 2017.
- ^ "Hofmann nach Braunschweig". Greuther Fürth – Die offizielle Website (in German). Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^ "Löwen verpflichten Philipp Hofmann". Eintracht Braunschweig (in German). Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^ "Karlsruhes Hofmann: By clause to extend the contract". PressFrom – UK. Retrieved 5 July 2021.
- ^ a b "Philipp Hofmann wechselt zum VfL". e.V VfL Bochum 1848 Fußballgemeinschaft. Retrieved 8 May 2022.
- ^ "Tables – Bundesliga – Germany – Results, fixtures, tables and news". Soccerway. Retrieved 29 May 2023.
- ^ "Philipp Hofmann verlängert vorzeitig bis 2026". www.vfl-bochum.de (in German). Retrieved 24 June 2024.
- ^ @VfLBochum1848EN (28 July 2023). "Toto #Losilla remains as our captain for this season. @Cris_GamboaCR and Kevin #Stöger were voted vice captains by the team with an equal number of votes. The leadership team also includes Ivan #Ordets and Philipp #Hofmann. Well done, lads🤝 #VfLinBruneck" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ "1:4 in Bremen – VfL muss in Relegation". www.vfl-bochum.de (in German). Retrieved 27 May 2024.
- ^ a b "Fortuna Düsseldorf – VfL Bochum 1848 | Season 2023/2024 | Bundesliga". bundesliga.com – the official Bundesliga website. Retrieved 27 May 2024.
- ^ "Union Berlin vs Bochum: Bundesliga match suspended after keeper hit by object". BBC Sport. 14 December 2024. Retrieved 14 December 2024.
- ^ a b "Bundesliga relegation clash hospitalizes 2 players". ESPN.com. 3 May 2025. Retrieved 4 May 2025.
- ^ "Tables – Bundesliga – Germany – Results, fixtures, tables and news". Soccerway. Retrieved 24 May 2025.
- ^ a b c d Philipp Hofmann at DFB (also available in German)
- ^ "Spielplan". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Statistik-Center". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ a b "Spielplan". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Spielplan". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Spielplan". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Statistik-Center". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Spielplan". Retrieved 23 July 2015.
- ^ "Portugal U21 5–0 Germany U21". BBC. Retrieved 4 October 2015.
- ^ Blesken, Falk (5 April 2012). "Schalke-Talent Philipp Hofmann ist auf dem Sprung zu den Profis". Der Westen. Funke Medien. Retrieved 25 July 2018.
External links
[edit]- Philipp Hofmann at fussballdaten.de (in German)
- Philipp Hofmann at Soccerbase
- Philipp Hofmann – UEFA competition record (archive)
- Philipp Hofmann at DFB (also available in German)
- Philipp Hofmann at vfl-bochum.de
Philipp Hofmann
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Childhood
Philipp Hofmann was born on 30 March 1993 in Arnsberg, in the Sauerland region of Germany.[1] He grew up in a family deeply connected to football, as the son of Dirk Hofmann, a former professional player who appeared in the Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund and spent several seasons with SpVgg Unterhaching in the 2. Bundesliga and Regionalliga.[10] During his early years, Hofmann accompanied his father to Unterhaching, where he gained initial exposure to the sport by joining him in the locker room, observing training sessions, and attending matches, fostering his passion for football from a young age.[11]Youth and early professional career
Youth career
Philipp Hofmann began his youth football career at TSV Rot-Weiß Wenholthausen, a local club in his hometown of Arnsberg, where he played from 2001 to 2007 starting at the age of eight.[1] He then moved to SC Neheim in 2007, remaining with the club until 2009 and continuing to develop his skills in regional youth competitions.[1] In 2009, at age 16, Hofmann joined the youth academy of FC Schalke 04, one of Germany's top clubs, marking a significant step in his progression toward professional football.[1] During the 2010–11 season, he featured prominently for Schalke's U17 team in the U17 Bundesliga West, where he scored 17 goals in 24 appearances, demonstrating his potential as a prolific forward. His performances included a notable contribution in a 3–2 victory over Borussia Dortmund U17 in March 2011, where he scored one of the goals.[12] Hofmann advanced to Schalke's U19 squad for the 2011–12 season, competing in the U19 Bundesliga and the German U19 Championship. In the championship playoffs, he scored three goals across the tournament, including a tap-in in a 2–1 semifinal win against FC Bayern Munich U19 in June 2012, assisted by Max Meyer. These achievements highlighted his growing role within the academy, leading to his promotion to the reserve team by the end of 2011.Schalke 04 and loans
Hofmann signed his first professional contract with Bundesliga club Schalke 04 in 2011, marking the transition from youth to senior ranks within the organization. Primarily deployed with the reserve team, Schalke 04 II, in the fourth-tier Regionalliga West, he contributed to the side's efforts in the 2011–12 season, making 24 appearances and scoring 6 goals. His performances in the reserves highlighted his potential as a tall, physical forward, though opportunities with the first team remained limited.[1] In the 2012–13 season, Hofmann gained his initial exposure to professional football on loan to 2. Bundesliga club SC Paderborn 07. He made his league debut on 11 August 2012 in a home match against VfL Bochum, entering as a substitute in a 4–0 victory. Over the course of the loan, Hofmann featured in 30 matches, netting 6 goals and providing glimpses of his finishing ability in competitive senior play. In the 2013–14 season, Hofmann was loaned to another 2. Bundesliga side, FC Ingolstadt 04. He made 31 appearances for the first team, scoring 8 goals, and also played 3 matches for Ingolstadt's reserves, netting 6 goals including two hat-tricks. This loan spell further developed his professional experience without securing a breakthrough to Schalke's Bundesliga first team. Despite consistent involvement across these opportunities, the challenges of progressing in a competitive academy system were evident.Club career
1. FC Kaiserslautern
Philipp Hofmann transferred to 1. FC Kaiserslautern from Schalke 04 on 31 July 2014 on a free transfer, signing a two-year contract.[13] In the 2014–15 season, Hofmann played in the 2. Bundesliga, where he made 33 appearances and scored 8 goals. His performances contributed to the team's 4th-place finish.[14][15]Brentford
Philipp Hofmann joined Brentford in the English Championship on 23 July 2015, signing a three-year contract from 1. FC Kaiserslautern for an undisclosed fee.[16] The move marked his transition to English football, where he was signed as a target man forward to bolster the squad's attacking options under head coach Marinus Dijkhuizen.[17] His prior experience in the German 2. Bundesliga, where he had scored eight goals in 33 appearances the previous season, was seen as a foundation for adapting to the physical demands of the Championship.[16] Hofmann made his Brentford debut on 8 August 2015 in the opening match of the 2015–16 season, starting as a forward in a 2–2 home draw against Ipswich Town, where he played the full 90 minutes without scoring.[18] He scored his first goal for the club just one week later, on 15 August 2015, netting once in a 4–2 away victory over Bristol City during another full 90-minute appearance.[18] An injury-hit campaign limited his consistency, but he contributed four goals across 21 appearances that season.[15] In the 2016–17 season, Hofmann's involvement decreased further, with only 10 appearances and no goals as he struggled for starts amid increased competition in the forward line.[15] Over his two years at Brentford, he made 31 total appearances and scored four goals in the Championship.[15] His contract was allowed to expire, and he was released by the club on 13 June 2017, paving the way for a return to German football.[19]Greuther Fürth
After spending time in English football, Philipp Hofmann returned to Germany by signing with 2. Bundesliga club SpVgg Greuther Fürth on 1 July 2017, joining on a three-year contract for a transfer fee of €250,000.[13][20] In the first half of the 2017–18 season, Hofmann established himself as a regular squad member, making 9 league appearances with 1 goal, while also scoring twice in 2 DFB-Pokal matches, for a total of 3 goals across 11 appearances.[21][22] He split time between starting lineup and substitute roles, often providing physical presence as a target man in a side that competed in mid-table positions during his tenure.[21] Hofmann drew on lessons from his English experience, such as improved aerial duels and pace adjustment, to aid his reintegration into the faster-paced German second tier.[20] Greuther Fürth ultimately finished 15th in the 2. Bundesliga that season, safely mid-table, but Hofmann departed on loan in January 2018, and his contract was not renewed upon its expiration in 2020.[13]Eintracht Braunschweig
On 23 January 2018, Philipp Hofmann transferred to 2. Bundesliga club Eintracht Braunschweig from SpVgg Greuther Fürth, signing a contract until June 2020.[13] The move marked the beginning of Hofmann's time at the club after a limited stint at Fürth. He made 12 league appearances and scored 1 goal during the second half of the 2017–18 campaign in the 2. Bundesliga, including a notable strike in a 1–1 draw against Dynamo Dresden on 8 April 2018.[23] These contributions helped Braunschweig secure survival that year, finishing 15th. In the 2018–19 season, following relegation, Hofmann enjoyed a revival in scoring form in the 3. Liga, adding 10 goals and 1 assist in 38 appearances, plus a goalless outing in the DFB-Pokal.[24] Despite his efforts in the promotion battle, the team ended 3rd but dropped to the 3. Liga after aggregate defeats to Waldhof Mannheim in the promotion/relegation play-offs. Hofmann left Braunschweig as a free agent in July 2019, joining Karlsruher SC on a three-year deal until June 2022; his 18-month tenure at the club proved a crucial stepping stone amid the team's instability.[25]Karlsruher SC
Philipp Hofmann transferred to Karlsruher SC from Eintracht Braunschweig on a free transfer on 1 July 2019, signing a three-year contract until June 2022.[13] This move came after a transitional period at Braunschweig, where his output was limited.[14] During his tenure at Karlsruher SC, Hofmann established himself as one of the 2. Bundesliga's most prolific forwards, scoring 52 goals and providing 18 assists in 104 appearances across all competitions from 2019 to 2022.[14] His standout seasons were 2020–21, with 24 goals in 36 matches, and 2021–22, where he netted 25 goals in 39 outings, including 19 in the league. These performances placed him among the league's top scorers, highlighted by his clinical finishing and aerial prowess at 1.95 meters tall.[26] Hofmann played a pivotal role in Karlsruher SC's promotion challenges, contributing significantly to their fifth-place finish in the 2021–22 season, though the club fell short of the Bundesliga by three points behind VfL Bochum. Over two seasons of sustained high output from 2020 to 2022, he tallied 49 goals in 96 appearances, earning acclaim as a fan favorite for his physical presence in the box and consistent goal threat.[14]VfL Bochum
Hofmann joined VfL Bochum on a free transfer from Karlsruher SC on 1 July 2022, signing an initial two-year contract until June 2024.[27] In August 2023, he extended his deal with the club until June 2026, reflecting his growing importance to the squad amid their Bundesliga survival battles.[1] This was further extended in October 2025 until June 2028, following recovery from injury.[6] The extension came after a solid debut season where he contributed significantly to Bochum's efforts to stay in the top flight. Over three Bundesliga seasons with Bochum, Hofmann appeared in 102 matches and scored 16 goals by October 2025, often proving decisive in tight relegation fights with his physical presence and aerial ability.[14] His goals included crucial strikes that helped secure vital points, such as headers in key survival matches during the 2023-24 campaign. One standout moment came on 14 December 2024, when Bochum were reduced to 10 men after goalkeeper Patrick Drewes was red-carded following a head injury from an object thrown from the stands during a 1-1 draw at Union Berlin; Hofmann stepped in as emergency goalkeeper for the final minutes, helping to maintain the result despite the chaos.[28] Hofmann's 2024-25 season ended prematurely on 2 May 2025 in a 0-0 draw against FC Heidenheim, where he suffered a broken rib and collapsed lung in a collision with defender Marvin Pieringer, requiring surgery and sidelining him for the remainder of the campaign.[7] The injury not only halted his personal contributions but also compounded Bochum's struggles, as they were relegated to the 2. Bundesliga following a 4-1 defeat to Mainz 05 on 10 May 2025, ending their four-year stint in the top division.[29] In the 2025-26 2. Bundesliga season, Hofmann has featured in the early matches, scoring 1 goal with 0 assists as of November 2025, as Bochum aim for an immediate promotion return under coach Dieter Hecking.[9]International career
Youth international career
Hofmann made his debut for the Germany U18 national team in 2011, where he earned 3 appearances with no goals. These matches primarily consisted of friendlies, providing early international exposure during his youth development phase.[30] Progressing to the U19 level later that year, Hofmann featured in the 2011–12 season, accumulating 10 appearances and netting 7 goals. His contributions included participation in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship qualifiers, where he helped the team in competitive fixtures against opponents such as Serbia, scoring in a group stage draw.[31][30] In the 2012–13 season, Hofmann made 4 appearances for the Germany U20 team, scoring 2 goals in international matches.[30] Hofmann advanced to the U21 squad from 2013 to 2015, earning 17 appearances and scoring 9 goals in total. He played a significant role in the 2015 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifiers, registering key strikes that aided Germany's campaign, including a dramatic late equalizer in a 1–1 draw against Montenegro. He also participated in the 2015 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, making 2 appearances.[32][30]Senior international career
Philipp Hofmann has not earned any senior international caps for the Germany national team as of November 2025.[30] Despite his consistent goal-scoring form at club level, including a standout 2021–22 season where he netted 19 goals in 33 appearances for Karlsruher SC in the 2. Bundesliga, Hofmann has not received a call-up to the senior DFB squad. This period marked his peak productivity, yet the position of forward remained highly competitive, dominated by established players such as Timo Werner. Hofmann's transition to the Bundesliga with VfL Bochum in 2022, where he has contributed goals and assists across multiple seasons, has similarly not prompted an invitation from the national team selectors. His youth international experience with Germany up to the U21 level remains the extent of his representative career.[30]Personal life
Family
Philipp Hofmann was born in Arnsberg to supportive parents.[1] His father, Dirk Hofmann, is a former professional footballer who played in the Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund and other clubs, and currently serves as a coach in the local sports community at TSV Heiligenrode, fostering a family environment centered on athletics.[11] Hofmann has three half-sisters: Lisa from his father's first marriage, and Jule and Hannah from his father's second marriage; Jule has followed in the family tradition as an aspiring professional footballer with SV Werder Bremen.[11] Hofmann married his long-term partner, Chantal, in 2020 in Winterberg.[33] The couple has two children: a son named Neo, born in 2021, and a daughter born in August 2024.[11][34] From an early age, Hofmann's family played a pivotal role in nurturing his passion for football, with his father introducing him to the sport and providing ongoing encouragement through attendance at matches and guidance on professional development.[11] This familial support has remained influential, as Hofmann has credited his father's experiences and the family's active involvement in sports for shaping his career trajectory.[11]Other personal details
Hofmann has resided in the Bochum area since joining VfL Bochum in the summer of 2022. During his earlier career, he lived in Karlsruhe while playing for Karlsruher SC from 2019 to 2022, and previously in London, where he occupied a high-rise apartment in the Brentford district overlooking Wembley Stadium.[35] Outside of football, Hofmann engages in local charity work, including a visit to the children's clinic at St. Josef Hospital in Bochum on December 4, 2023, where he and fellow VfL players surprised young patients with interactions, autographs, and photos to bring holiday cheer.[36] He maintains a low public profile with no major controversies reported in his personal life.Career statistics
Club statistics
Philipp Hofmann has amassed a total of 452 appearances and 125 goals across his senior club career in various domestic leagues and cups as of 14 November 2025.[37] His contributions have primarily come in the German football system, with notable stints in the Bundesliga, 2. Bundesliga, and 3. Liga, alongside brief experience in the English EFL Championship and associated cups. While assists and minutes played vary by season, his role as a centre-forward has emphasized goal-scoring efficiency, particularly in second-tier competitions.Career Summary by Club and Competition
The following table summarizes key club statistics, focusing on major leagues and cups. Data includes appearances (apps), goals (G), and assists (A) where impactful; full seasonal breakdowns are available via specialized databases.| Club | Competition | Seasons | Apps | G | A | Notes/Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SC Paderborn 07 (loan) | 2. Bundesliga | 2012–2013 | 30 | 6 | 2 | Approx. 2,000'; debut senior season. |
| FC Ingolstadt 04 (loan) | 2. Bundesliga | 2013–2014 | 33 | 9 | 3 | Approx. 2,500'. |
| 1. FC Kaiserslautern | 2. Bundesliga | 2012–2015 | 66 | 14 | 4 | Approx. 4,000'; 8 goals in 2014–15. |
| Brentford | EFL Championship | 2015–2017 | 31 | 4 | 0 | Approx. 2,000'; limited starts. |
| Brentford | FA Cup & EFL Cup | 2015–2017 | 4 | 0 | 0 | Approx. 200'. |
| SpVgg Greuther Fürth | 2. Bundesliga | 2017–2018 | 17 | 10 | 3 | Approx. 1,200'; first half of season. |
| Eintracht Braunschweig | 2. Bundesliga | 2017–2018 | 12 | 1 | 1 | Approx. 700'; second half of season. |
| Eintracht Braunschweig | 3. Liga | 2018–2019 | 38 | 10 | 3 | Approx. 3,000'. |
| Karlsruher SC | 2. Bundesliga | 2019–2022 | 96 | 49 | 17 | Approx. 7,000'; 22 goals in 2021–22.[37] |
| Karlsruher SC | DFB-Pokal | 2019–2022 | 8 | 3 | 1 | Approx. 600'. |
| VfL Bochum | Bundesliga | 2022–2025 | 97 | 17 | 9 | Approx. 5,500'; incl. playoffs; key in survival, 8 goals in 2022–23.[37] |
| VfL Bochum | 2. Bundesliga | 2025–2026 | 11 | 1 | 4 | Approx. 800'; early season after relegation.[37] |
| VfL Bochum | DFB-Pokal | 2022–2026 | 8 | 1 | 2 | Approx. 500'. |
International statistics
Philipp Hofmann has not represented the senior Germany national team, accumulating 0 caps and 0 goals.[38] In his youth international career, Hofmann earned 34 caps and scored 17 goals across the under-18, under-19, under-20, and under-21 levels, with his final appearance coming for the U21 side in 2015. His contributions were primarily in UEFA European Championship qualifiers and friendlies, showcasing his scoring prowess in competitive youth fixtures. The following table summarizes his appearances and goals by youth level:| Youth Level | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| U18 | 3 | 0 |
| U19 | 10 | 6 |
| U20 | 4 | 2 |
| U21 | 17 | 9 |
| Total | 34 | 17 |