Jakob Schöller at Rapid: The plan with the youngest leader

Jakob Schöller, 20, has emerged as a key figure in Rapid Wien's defensive lineup following his transfer from Admira in the summer of 2024. The young defender, who joined the club for €500,000, initially faced challenges due to a recovery period after injury. Once he returned to training, head coach Robert Klauß expressed enthusiasm over Schöller’s potential. Known for his speed and ability to play multiple roles, Schöller quickly became part of a trio with Raux-Yao and Dahl, regarded as one of the fastest combinations in Austrian football. Under the guidance of Peter Stöger in 2025, Schöller continued to impress during training sessions. His versatility allowed him to function both as a midfielder and forward, drawing praise from coaches. However, his career was marked by recurring injuries, particularly affecting his muscles. This led to cautious management of his playing time throughout the season. By early 2026, Schöller had regained full fitness and was ready to contribute more consistently. Johannes Hoff Thorup, a former player and current analyst, shared insights into Schöller’s journey. Though he remained reserved about the young defender’s abilities during their initial encounters, Hoff Thorup acknowledged Schöller’s importance once he settled into the team. During a military service obligation in January, Schöller was unable to attend training, which sparked some personal reflection from Hoff Thorup. Despite joking about being upset that Schöller chose military service over football, he emphasized their mutual understanding of the situation. Hoff Thorup later reflected on Schöller’s development, noting that he anticipated the player’s impact before his return to training. He analyzed all games of the autumn season and observed how Schöller adapted to high-level competition. While careful not to publicly pressure the young player during his adjustment phase, Hoff Thorup believed Schöller had the capability to perform at the highest level. Schöller’s confidence grew further with his appointment as vice-captain behind Seidl. Despite his youth, he demonstrated the leadership qualities necessary for the role. He described the captaincy as both an honor and a responsibility, aiming to provide stability and calmness to his teammates. With his physical and mental readiness, Schöller has surpassed fellow defenders Cvetkovic and Raux-Yao in terms of consistency and performance. As the new season approaches, Schöller is set to feature prominently in Rapid’s starting XI. He is expected to play a crucial role in the team’s defense, supported by his growing experience and self-belief. Hoff Thorup, while acknowledging the frustration some players might feel with rotation decisions, maintains that transparency helps build trust within the squad. With his recent form and leadership qualities, Schöller is poised to become a vital asset for Rapid Wien in the upcoming matches.