In brief
The 35-year-old striker, previously of Cardiff City, is expected to miss several months due to his serious injuries, as authorities search for the assailant.
Austria's football scene is in shock following a brutal attack on striker Guido Burgstaller, who suffered a fractured skull during an incident in downtown Vienna. His club, Rapid Vienna, announced the injury, stating that the 35-year-old forward is expected to be sidelined for several months due to this serious head trauma, which occurred over the weekend.Burgstaller was reportedly assaulted by an unknown assailant, resulting in the fracture after he fell from a significant blow. He was initially treated at the scene before being rushed to the hospital, where he is set to remain under observation in the coming days. Rapid Vienna issued a statement expressing their confidence in law enforcement to swiftly identify and apprehend the perpetrator.The former Cardiff City striker, who has earned 26 caps for the Austrian national team, began his professional career with Rapid before moving to Wales in 2014. During his time at Cardiff, he made only three appearances before transitioning to German clubs including Nurnberg, Schalke, and St Pauli. Burgstaller rejoined Rapid in 2022, furthering his legacy in Austrian football. Earlier this year, he faced scrutiny after being one of three Austrian players dropped by national coach Ralf Rangnick for their involvement in a controversial incident involving homophobic chants following a match against city rivals Austria Vienna. As authorities continue their investigation, the football community rallies in support of Burgstaller during this challenging time.
