Nottingham Forest have announced the arrival of Xaver Schlager, with the Austrian midfielder becoming manager Oliver Glasner's first signing at the City Ground. The 28-year-old joins on a two-year contract as a free agent following his departure from RB Leipzig, where he made nearly 200 appearances across seven seasons in Germany's top division.
Schlager reunites with Glasner after their successful collaboration at Wolfsburg, where the pair helped the club reach the Europa League knockout stages and secure a fourth-place Bundesliga finish that earned Champions League qualification. The midfielder brings significant European pedigree, having previously featured for Red Bull Salzburg—where he reached the 2018 Europa League semi-finals—and establishing himself as a consistent performer at Leipzig. Over the last campaign, he made 30 Bundesliga appearances before representing Austria throughout their 2026 World Cup qualification run, earning his 55th international cap.
Experience and Impact
Schlager's arrival signals Forest's ambition to challenge domestically after finishing 16th last season, despite an impressive Europa League run that carried them to the semi-finals. His tactical adaptability and high-intensity pressing style align perfectly with Glasner's proven system, while his experience as vice-captain at Leipzig demonstrates leadership credentials. Chief football officer George Syrianos emphasized the midfielder's immediate value: "Xaver brings really important qualities and characteristics to the team. He's a leader with years of experience playing at the highest level in Europe, and there is a strong feeling he has all the attributes to make an immediate impact."
The midfielder expressed enthusiasm about the move, highlighting Forest's historic pedigree and European aspirations. With two European Cups won under Brian Clough still defining the club's identity, Schlager joins a squad keen to return to continental competition. His signing sets the tone for the transfer window as Glasner looks to rebuild after a domestic campaign that fell short of expectations, despite continental success underlining the club's capability to compete with Europe's elite.
