Werder Bremen announced on Friday that Austrian national goalkeeper Alexander Schlager has joined from Red Bull Salzburg, marking the club's sixth signing of the campaign. The 30‑year‑old, who featured at the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico, is expected to boost the already strong goalkeeping unit both on and off the pitch.

How did the deal materialise?

Peter Niemeyer, head of professional football at Werder, said the club had secured "another strong keeper" in Schlager. Werder had already signed Karl Hein permanently and installed him as the first‑choice keeper. Schlager, with 241 Austrian Bundesliga appearances, 23 Europa League games and ten Champions League matches, now adds depth to the competition for the No. 1 spot. His 30 caps for Austria bring valuable experience.

What impact will he have on the goalkeeper battle?

The goalkeeping roster now includes Karl Hein, Markus Kolke, Stefan Smarkalev and newcomer Schlager. Hein, returning from a loan at Arsenal as the starter, will now train daily with the former World Cup keeper. Niemeyer stressed that constant internal competition will raise overall performance. For Werder this means more options and greater security in the final third.

How does this affect the upcoming season?

Werder currently sit 15th in the Bundesliga with 32 points from 34 games (8 wins, 8 draws, 18 losses) and a recent form of L L L D W. The defence has already conceded 60 goals while the attack has scored 37 (‑23 goal difference). Schlager's arrival could help tighten the back line and aid the club in climbing out of the relegation zone. With Keke Topp sidelined, the need for a reliable keeper is even clearer.

What can fans expect in the coming weeks?

Following his official presentation, Schlager is set to join the next training camp, familiarising himself with the Weser routine. Supporters can anticipate an intense fight for the starting spot as Werder strives to close the 57‑point gap to leaders Bayern München and secure survival.