Werder lose key midfielder Stage to long‑term thigh injury

Werder Bremen have suffered a major setback ahead of the Bundesliga season, with Jens Stage ruled out for the rest of the calendar year after sustaining a serious thigh muscle injury. The 29‑year‑old, Bremen’s most reliable scorer over the past two campaigns with ten league goals each season, was forced to abandon Friday’s training session, and medical tests on Sunday confirmed the grim diagnosis.

Captain Marco Friedl described the news as “devastating,” emphasising Stage’s importance both on the pitch and in the dressing room. Coach Daniel Thioune echoed the sentiment, admitting the loss of the dynamic box‑to‑box midfielder “hits us hard” and leaves a significant void in terms of leadership and goal threat.

Managing director Clemens Fritz labelled the injury a “huge shock” and promised supporters that the club will act swiftly. With the transfer window closing on Tuesday, Bremen expect to secure a midfield signing to compensate for Stage’s prolonged absence.