Maximilian Wöber Reveals Extent of Injury Problems During Difficult Loan Spell Away From Leeds United
Leeds United defender Maximilian Wöber has admitted that his current injury problem is far more serious than initially believed, though he remains optimistic that he could still feature in a handful of matches for Werder Bremen before the season ends.
The Austrian international recently discussed his situation during an appearance on the 1x1Sport Fußballtrainer podcast, with German outlet Deich Stube reporting his comments about the frustrating setbacks he has experienced during his loan spell.
From Leeds Exit to Bremen Struggles
Wöber left Leeds United following the club’s relegation from the Premier League to the EFL Championship. During the 2023/24 campaign he spent time on loan at Borussia Mönchengladbach in Germany, before eventually returning to Elland Road.
Although Leeds managed to regain promotion back to the Premier League under manager Daniel Farke, Wöber opted for another move away from the club. In July 2025 he joined Bundesliga outfit Werder Bremen on loan, hoping for more regular playing time.
However, the transfer has turned into a nightmare for the 28-year-old defender. His only appearance for Bremen came in August during a DFB-Pokal match against Arminia Bielefeld. Since that game, injuries have kept him out of competitive action.
Series of Injury Setbacks
Soon after his debut, Wöber suffered a hamstring injury that forced him to spend nearly four months sidelined. Just as he was nearing a comeback, another problem emerged which delayed his return once again.
The setback occurred after he played 45 minutes in a friendly against FC St. Pauli earlier this year. According to reports, Bremen later confirmed that the centre-back had been dealing with a calf injury that has kept him out for around two months.
Initially, the issue was thought to be relatively minor. But Wöber has now revealed that the diagnosis gradually became more serious as doctors continued to assess the damage.
He explained that after the friendly match he began to feel discomfort in his calf. At first the injury was believed to be a simple strain, but recovery took longer than expected. Further examinations later showed that it had developed into a muscle fibre tear, which then progressed into a more complex tear involving the tendon.
Wöber admitted that several aspects of his rehabilitation did not go smoothly, contributing to the prolonged absence.
Seeking Help From a Specialist in London
In an attempt to resolve the issue and finally return to full fitness, the Leeds-owned defender recently travelled to London to consult a specialist and obtain a second medical opinion.
Despite the long layoff, Wöber believes he is close to recovery. However, he explained that he still cannot run or play football completely pain-free, which is preventing him from returning to competitive matches.
He hopes the consultation will help speed up his recovery and allow him to resume full training within the next couple of weeks. If everything goes well, the Austrian is targeting a return shortly after the international break, with the aim of featuring in at least five or six matches before the season concludes.
Uncertain Future Beyond This Season
Wöber’s injury-hit campaign could also influence his long-term future. Reports from Germany previously indicated that Bremen hold an option to sign him permanently for around €4 million.
Given that he has barely played due to injuries, the Bundesliga side are now considered unlikely to activate that purchase clause.
The defender remains under contract with Leeds United until 2027 and is currently valued at approximately €4 million. However, with his loan spell failing to deliver and his fitness record raising concerns, Leeds may look to sell the Austrian permanently during the upcoming summer transfer window.