Patrick Wimmer

Analysis: Wimmer came off the bench in the final minutes of Tuesday's 3-1 win over Jordan to replace Romano Schmid, making his World Cup debut with just seven minutes to play and immediately contributing one interception as his side protected their two-goal lead in the closing stages at Levi's Stadium. The Wolfsburg forward's appearance marked a significant personal milestone given that a thigh injury had ruled him out of the club's relegation playoff just weeks prior, with the coaching staff choosing to ease him back through a brief cameo rather than hand him an immediate starting role in the tournament opener. Wimmer will look to build on his return to fitness in the coming fixtures, with his pace, directness and versatility across the front line giving coach Ralf Rangnick a dangerous wide option to call upon as Austria navigate a group that also includes Argentina and Algeria.

Jun 8, 2026

Back training with ball

Wimmer (thigh) was spotted training with the ball, marking a significant step forward in his recovery from the thigh issue that ruled him out of Wolfsburg's relegation playoff, the Austrian federation posted.

Analysis: Wimmer ended the club season with four goals, three assists, 16 chances created and 47 tackles across 25 Bundesliga appearances before the injury struck, and his return to ball work is an encouraging development heading into the World Cup. The wide forward, who has completed a transfer to Hoffenheim ahead of the 2026/27 season, will now focus entirely on being fully fit for Austria's World Cup opener against Jordan on June 17.