Fabian Lukas Schär: Biography
Full Name: Fabian Lukas Schär
Date of Birth: December 20, 1991
Place of Birth: Wil, Canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland
Position: Centre-back
Current Club: Newcastle United (Premier League)
Known For: Powerful free kicks, long-range shots, precise long passes, and aerial dominance
Early Life and Youth Career
Fabian Schär was born and raised in Wil, a small town in the Canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Growing up, his passion for football became evident, and he joined the youth setup at his hometown club, FC Wil. From an early age, he showed potential as a composed and versatile defender, gradually advancing through the ranks.
Schär made his first-team debut for FC Wil on November 29, 2009, in a Swiss Challenge League match against FC Stade Nyonnais. Though he entered as a late substitute, it marked the beginning of a promising professional career. On October 30, 2010, Schär scored his first league goal during an away victory over Yverdon-Sport, underlining his ability to contribute offensively even from a defensive position.
Club Career
Wil (2009–2012)
Schär became a consistent performer for FC Wil’s senior team in the Swiss Challenge League, Switzerland’s second division. Over three seasons, he established himself as one of the most promising young defenders in Swiss football, attracting attention from top-tier clubs.
Basel (2012–2015)
In July 2012, Schär signed with Swiss Super League powerhouse FC Basel on a three-year deal. His time at Basel proved to be a transformative period, during which he developed into a top-tier defender while achieving significant team success:
- Debut and First Goal: Schär debuted in the league on September 29, 2012, in a 1–1 draw against Lausanne-Sport. A week later, he scored his first goal for the club, heading in an equalizer during a 3–2 victory over Servette.
- Swiss Super League Champion: Schär helped Basel secure the league title in all three seasons he played for the club (2012–13, 2013–14, and 2014–15).
- European Campaigns:
- In the 2012–13 UEFA Europa League, Basel reached the semi-finals, where they lost to Chelsea.
- In the 2014–15 UEFA Champions League, Schär played a pivotal role in guiding Basel to the Round of 16, including a crucial 1–1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield.
Despite the club’s success in the league, Basel fell short in the Swiss Cup during Schär’s tenure, finishing as runners-up in three consecutive finals.
1899 Hoffenheim (2015–2017)
In June 2015, Schär moved to the Bundesliga, signing with 1899 Hoffenheim. Though his time in Germany was not as prolific as in Switzerland, he gained valuable experience in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues. On April 16, 2016, he scored his only goal for Hoffenheim—a header in a 2–1 victory over Hertha BSC.
Deportivo La Coruña (2017–2018)
Schär transferred to Spanish club Deportivo La Coruña in July 2017, signing a four-year deal. He made his La Liga debut on August 20, 2017, in a match against Real Madrid. Although he scored twice during the season, Deportivo suffered relegation to the Segunda División, prompting Schär to leave the club after just one year.
Newcastle United (2018–Present)
Schär joined Premier League side Newcastle United in July 2018 after the club activated his modest £3 million buyout clause. At Newcastle, he became a key player in defense and delivered several memorable performances:
- Debut Season (2018–19): Schär scored his first goals for Newcastle in a 3–0 win over Cardiff City on January 19, 2019, netting twice. A month later, he scored a stunning 30-yard strike against Burnley, earning the Premier League Goal of the Month award for February.
- Champions League Success (2023–24): Schär scored his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal for Newcastle on October 4, 2023, during a remarkable 4–1 victory against Paris Saint-Germain in the group stage.
- Milestone Goal: On April 13, 2024, Schär netted his 50th career goal during Newcastle’s 4–0 win over Tottenham Hotspur.
Schär has extended his contract multiple times, most recently in January 2024, ensuring his stay at Newcastle until the summer of 2025.
International Career
Youth Career and Olympics
Schär represented Switzerland at various youth levels, including the U-20 and U-21 teams. He made his U-20 debut on November 17, 2011, in a match against Poland, and scored his first goal for the U-21s on September 10, 2012, during a UEFA Euro U-21 qualifying match against Estonia.
In 2012, Schär was part of Switzerland’s squad for the men’s football tournament at the Summer Olympics in London. He played in the first two group-stage matches, but the team failed to progress to the knockout stage.
Senior Career
Schär made his senior debut for Switzerland in 2013 and has since become a regular fixture in the national team. His major international tournament appearances include:
- FIFA World Cups: Represented Switzerland in 2014, 2018, and 2022, playing a crucial role in the team’s defensive setup.
- UEFA European Championships: Played in the 2016, 2020, and 2024 editions.
Schär’s contributions have been vital in Switzerland’s ability to consistently compete at the highest levels, blending defensive solidity with an attacking edge.
Read also: Odysseas Vlachodimos: Career, Net Worth, and Cars
Playing Style
Fabian Schär is renowned for his versatility and technical skills as a centre-back. His attributes include:
- Set-Piece Mastery: Capable of scoring from free kicks and corners.
- Defensive Intelligence: Strong in positioning, tackling, and reading the game.
- Attacking Contribution: Known for his long-range shots and pinpoint long passes.
- Aerial Dominance: A threat in both defensive and attacking situations due to his height and heading ability.
Fabian Lukas Schär Networth
Fabian Schär earns an estimated £40,000 per week, which amounts to £2,080,000 annually, as a defender for Newcastle United F.C. Over the course of his career thus far, Schär has accumulated earnings totaling £2,080,000. His projected net worth stands at approximately £6,240,000.
Personal Life and Legacy
Off the field, Fabian Schär is admired for his professionalism and humble demeanor. His journey from a small-town club in Wil to becoming a standout player in the Premier League and on the international stage is an inspiration. Schär’s consistent performances and contributions to both club and country have solidified his status as one of Switzerland’s finest defenders. As his career progresses, Schär continues to leave a lasting legacy in football with his skill, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence.