FC Red Bull Salzburg loses its first‑choice goalkeeper Alexander Schlager, who after a stellar World Cup performance will join traditional side Werder Bremen this summer. The 30‑year‑old Austrian international leaves the club after three seasons, a transfer that has already been finalized in recent days.

Why did Schlager leave the club?

Schlager has been the number one between the sticks since summer 2023, after returning from LASK to his youth club. Despite three title‑less seasons with the Bullen, he remained one of the few bright spots. His strong World Cup showing, especially in all three group matches, attracted interest from abroad. Besides clubs from Saudi Arabia, Belgium and Cyprus, Werder Bremen – a historic club – has now stepped in, needing a new goalkeeper after Mio Backhaus's departure.

How will his exit affect Salzburg?

With Schlager gone, an experienced safety is lost, but the club already has a successor in mind: 19‑year‑old Christian Zawieschitzky is set to guard the net. Behind him are other young talents like Nikola Sarcevic (19) and Teo Hupfauf (16). Coach Daniel Thioune will use the chance to restructure the defence and give the youngsters minutes. The departure might temporarily dent defensive confidence, yet it opens space for the next generation.

What does the move mean for Werder Bremen?

Werder Bremen, currently 2nd in Bundesliga, 37 pts, 10W‑7D‑5L from 22 games, is hunting a reliable keeper to stay in the title race – they sit just 1 point behind leaders Sturm Graz. Schlager must still beat out Estonian Karl Hein, who became a rival after Backhaus left. The medical check is pending, but a contract until 2029 is already signed and the transfer is free.

When can fans see Schlager in Bremen?

The Bremer start their training camp from 20‑26 July in Zell am Ziller, Tirol. If everything goes as planned, Schlager could be on the pitch at the first session. The season’s opening match is at the end of August, when Bremen travel to face Freiburg. Whether he immediately becomes the starter depends on his integration and summer‑camp performances.

What does this mean for the Austrian national team?

Schlager remains Austria’s goalkeeper and will continue training with teammates Marco Friedl, Romano Schmid and Marco Grüll. His move to Germany could give him extra experience in one of Europe’s strongest leagues, benefiting the national side. The ÖFB coaches hope he keeps his World Cup form and improves further.