As far as European football for Wolfsburg was concerned, it was a case of so near and yet so far. The Wolves had a 2-0 lead in Stuttgart on the last day, but ended up conceding three times in the last half hour to lose 2-3. That was then the end of any outside chance Magath’s team might have had of entering into the qualifying stages of the Europa League. Magath has still worked wonders at Wolfsburg after his brief spell with Schalke. The Wolves are no longer struggling around the bottom group and finishing the season in a mid-table position is respectable enough for the present. Another season could see the Volkswagen outfit amongst the leaders or thereabouts. Recent improvements have seen the Wolves become more competitive. Former Leverkusen forward Helmes has finally regained the form that made him one of the most feared strikers in the Bundesliga bagging 12 goals in just 16 appearances. Their other top striker Mandzukic was Wolfsburg most impressive player throughout the season. However, with Helmes alongside now, the dynamic duo could be the key to the Wolves destiny in the foreseeable future. They struggled near the bottom of the table during the early season but gradually worked their way up table following some new signings at the winter break. But there is no disputing that long servers such as goalkeeper Benaglio and Dejagah were also instrumental in ensuring Wolfsburg had an acceptable season.
