by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- At first glance, it might be Nick Woltemade's unique combination of exceptional height and surprising technical skills that has made him a crowd-pleaser.

Ahead of VfB Stuttgart's crucial league encounter against Bayern Munich on Friday, the 23-year-old has won fans' hearts across clubs.

Standing at 1.98 meters, he has inspired nicknames such as "the two-meter Messi" or "Stuttgart's most impressive tower." But his popularity extends beyond his stature, as he embodies the dream of an against-all-odds career.

Clips of him weaving through Wolfsburg's defense like a slalom skier in Stuttgart's recent match have gone viral on social media.

While the Bremen-born striker challenges traditional expectations of a forward, his rise has taken time. Now, he appears to be on the verge of breaking into the German national team.

Reports suggest he has caught the attention of Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann, with the next step seeming realistic after 11 appearances for the U-21 national team.

Having scored eight league goals and three in the German Cup - mostly as a substitute - he has surged into the spotlight. His humble demeanor and connection to common ideals have further endeared him to fans.

After progressing through Bremen's youth ranks without major success, his talent has blossomed in Stuttgart, surprising both the club and head coach Sebastian Hoeness.

Now, in a down-to-earth manner, he shares his dream of playing for Germany at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while fans cherish his specially designed shin guards featuring a picture of his parents.

Images of him kissing the on-printed photo before every match - even when starting on the bench - have fueled his reputation as the perfect mother-in-law's choice.

"My mother always went for Bremen, while my dad and my grandpa have been glowing Stuttgart fans ever since," he said, "but all love football."

As part of his family lives in the Stuttgart area, "things became easier despite my parents being far away in Bremen."

"As he delivers the momentum while everyone is surprised of what he is capable of," Hoeness said.

Despite his rising profile, the easygoing yet ambitious forward remains a positive presence in the locker room. ■