Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar has described the last six months as the hardest of his career after battling back from a serious ankle injury that cut short his 2025-26 season. The 34-year-old Switzerland international suffered ankle ligament damage during Newcastle's 4-3 win over Leeds United in January, underwent surgery, and later faced a foot infection that prevented his return. Despite the setbacks, Schar signed a one-year contract extension and reported for pre-season training at the KNOX training centre this week.
Contract Renewal and Return to Training
Schar expressed his delight at extending his stay on Tyneside, telling Newcastle's official website: "I was very pleased. I don't have to say what the club means to me; it was always my first choice to stay here. I'm glad we found an agreement and it was good to get it done early." The former Deportivo La Coruna defender is now entering his ninth season with the Magpies and feels he has 'unfinished business' after an injury-plagued campaign.
The Injury Nightmare
Reflecting on his ordeal, Schar said: "The last six months after my injury were the hardest of my career. I had to go through a lot and it was hard so I'm feeling a lot better now." He revealed that the infection was an unexpected setback: "I had a big setback with surgery which wasn't planned. I was close to coming back earlier and then had an infection which was tough. I felt gutted for it to end like that but I feel I am still able to add something to the team." Schar was stretchered off against Leeds in January, and his absence was felt as Newcastle pushed for European qualification.
Looking Ahead to the New Season
Schar is now focused on regaining full fitness during pre-season. "I worked really hard and I'm ready to go. Hopefully, I can try to enjoy this next season," he said. "I'm going to need some time to adapt after being out for such a long period but I feel confident in my body and myself. I'm going to use this pre-season to come back as strongly as possible." With his contract secured, Schar aims to play a key role in Newcastle's upcoming campaign.
