Nottingham Forest have officially strengthened their midfield ahead of the 2026/27 season by confirming the signing of Austrian international Xaver Schlager on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with RB Leipzig. The experienced central midfielder arrives at the City Ground with an impressive résumé, bringing leadership, tactical intelligence, and top-level European experience to Forest as they continue building a squad capable of competing in the Premier League.
Schlager’s arrival is viewed as one of the smartest pieces of business completed by Nottingham Forest this summer. Securing a player of his quality without paying a transfer fee allows the club to strengthen an important position while maintaining financial flexibility for additional signings. At 28 years old, the Austrian is entering what many consider the peak years of his career and offers the perfect blend of experience, energy, and consistency.
Having spent several successful seasons at RB Leipzig, Schlager established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s most reliable midfielders. His ability to break up opposition attacks, retain possession under pressure, and dictate the tempo of matches made him a key figure for the German club. During his time in Germany, he also gained valuable UEFA Champions League experience, regularly facing some of Europe’s strongest teams.
For Nottingham Forest, the signing addresses an area that required greater depth and leadership. Schlager is capable of playing as a defensive midfielder, a box-to-box midfielder, or in a deeper playmaking role. His versatility gives the coaching staff several tactical options depending on the opponent and match situation.
Forest supporters will also appreciate Schlager’s work ethic. Throughout his career, he has earned praise for his relentless pressing, disciplined positioning, and willingness to cover every blade of grass for his team. Those qualities fit perfectly with the competitive mentality Nottingham Forest aim to display throughout the Premier League campaign.
Beyond his club achievements, Schlager has been an important player for the Austrian national team. His international experience has helped develop his composure in high-pressure matches, something that could prove invaluable for Forest during difficult fixtures. His leadership both on and off the pitch is expected to benefit several of the club’s younger midfielders.
The move also represents a fresh challenge for the midfielder himself. After several years in the Bundesliga, the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League offers a new chapter in an already impressive career. England’s top flight is widely regarded as one of the most demanding leagues in world football, and Schlager will be eager to demonstrate that his qualities can translate successfully.
Fans have reacted positively to the announcement, with many praising the club for securing an experienced international without paying a transfer fee. Supporters believe his arrival could bring greater stability to the midfield while improving the team’s overall balance in possession and defensive transitions.
As preparations continue for the new season, expectations around Nottingham Forest are steadily growing. The acquisition of Xaver Schlager signals the club’s ambition to continue progressing and competing at a higher level. If he can replicate the form that made him a standout performer in Germany, Forest may have completed one of the most underrated signings of the 2026 summer transfer window, adding intelligence, determination, and proven quality to the heart of their midfield.
