Maximilian Wöber explains rapid Leeds United exit after Schalke move

Maximilian Wöber has revealed he wasted no time completing his departure from Leeds United after the opportunity to join Schalke emerged, admitting he "quickly packed" his bags to secure a return to German football.

The Austria international completed a permanent move to Schalke earlier this week after agreeing to terminate his contract at Elland Road. Speaking after his arrival, Wöber described how rapidly the transfer developed and explained why he was eager to seize the chance.

The 28-year-old told German outlet Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung that the move came together at short notice, leaving little time to prepare before travelling for his medical.

"I got the green light relatively spontaneously," Wöber said.

"I quickly packed my bags and underwent medical checks. Now I'm very glad that the first day or two are behind me."

His swift departure brings an end to a difficult spell with Leeds, where injuries prevented him from establishing himself as a regular starter after arriving from Red Bull Salzburg.

Wöber's last two years have been heavily disrupted by fitness problems. Between his time at Leeds and a loan spell with Werder Bremen, he managed just 11 competitive appearances.

Those injury setbacks also cost him a place in Austria's squad for the 2026 World Cup, raising questions over his long-term fitness.

Despite that recent record, Schalke believe the experienced defender can rediscover his best form if he remains available throughout the season.

The German club have protected themselves by offering Wöber a one-year contract with significant performance-related incentives.

According to the report, his guaranteed salary places him in the lower third of Schalke's wage structure, although appearance bonuses and team results could substantially increase his earnings.

Director of football Frank Baumann explained that the club carefully assessed both the player's medical history and willingness to accept those terms before completing the deal.

"Naturally, I made inquiries in Bremen about how the injury occurred and how he is rated in sporting terms," Baumann said.

"With a player who has had a bit of bad luck, you try to minimise the risk regarding salary and contract duration."

He added that Wöber immediately accepted the club's proposal.

"He was quickly on board with the salary and the contract length. We felt that he really wanted to join us and was convinced he would get back to playing regularly."

For Wöber, the move represents an opportunity to rebuild his career after an injury-hit period in England.

Returning to Germany offers the defender a familiar environment and, if he can remain fit, the chance to secure regular first-team football once again. Schalke, meanwhile, are hoping their low-risk deal proves to be a valuable piece of business if the Austrian international can rediscover the form that previously made him one of Europe's more highly regarded defenders.

Wöber is expected to continue integrating with his new team during Schalke's pre-season preparations as he works towards full match sharpness. His immediate objective will be staying injury-free and earning a regular place in the starting XI, while Leeds continue reshaping their squad following another summer of significant changes.