Deniz Undav Opens Up on Terrifying Allergy Ordeal After ‘Almost Dying Twice’

Former Brighton striker Deniz Undav has revealed that a severe seafood allergy once left him fearing for his life, with the Germany international saying he “almost died” twice after allergic reactions.

The 30-year-old Stuttgart forward discussed the condition during a recent podcast appearance, explaining that he cannot eat certain types of seafood, including shrimp, lobster and mussels.

[The Irish Sun]

Undav, who represented Brighton in the Premier League between 2022 and 2024, has since rebuilt his career in Germany and emerged as an important player for both Stuttgart and the German national team.

Undav Reveals the Allergy Behind His Food Choices

Undav was discussing his favourite foods when the conversation turned to sushi.

The striker explained that he can still enjoy certain types, but avoids seafood that triggers his allergy.

He then revealed the seriousness of what had happened to him in the past:

"“I’ve had an allergic reaction twice; I almost died both times.”"

Undav said his reactions involved significant swelling and breathing difficulties.

The revelation offers a glimpse into a personal challenge that exists away from the football pitch and helps explain why the Stuttgart forward has to be particularly careful about what he eats.

From Brighton Struggles to Stuttgart Star

Undav's football career has taken a remarkable route.

He joined Brighton from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise in 2022 but struggled to establish himself in the Premier League, scoring eight goals in 30 appearances for the Seagulls.

A loan move to Stuttgart in 2023 proved transformative.

The German club eventually made the move permanent in 2024, and Undav has since developed into one of Stuttgart's leading attacking players.

He has reportedly scored 57 goals in 117 appearances for the club while also providing 30 assists.

His Rise Has Reached the International Stage

Undav's club form has also earned him a prominent role with Germany.

The striker has scored nine goals in 13 international appearances and featured at the 2026 World Cup, where he scored against Curaçao and Ivory Coast.

[The Irish Sun]

That makes his journey particularly striking.

A player who found life difficult during his Premier League spell has gone on to become an established Bundesliga forward and Germany international.

Now, his latest revelation has provided supporters with a rare insight into the personal challenges he has dealt with alongside his football career.

Undav Has Learned to Manage the Situation

Despite the frightening experiences, Undav continues to enjoy food while carefully avoiding ingredients that could trigger his allergy.

He explained that when he eats sushi, he sticks to options such as salmon or vegetarian choices.

Away from football, he also described enjoying quieter meals with his wife in Stuttgart, highlighting how carefully he now manages his diet.

For a professional footballer, where nutrition is an important part of daily life, knowing exactly what is safe to eat is particularly important.

Undav's story is therefore another reminder that footballers can face significant challenges away from the spotlight — even when everything appears normal on the pitch.

Fan Debate

●⚽ Goal: Were you surprised by Undav's revelation?

●🔥 Fire: Does his journey from Brighton to Germany deserve more recognition?

●😲 Shock: Did you know Undav had dealt with such a serious allergy?

●👍 Like: Has Undav proved himself since leaving the Premier League?

●💬 Comment: Should Undav get another chance in the Premier League?