GAK extends Schiestl and Nicht’s contracts until 2027!

GAK extends Schiestl and Nicht’s contracts until 2027!

Grazer AK has announced that they have extended the contracts of goalkeeper Christoph Nicht and midfielder Thomas Schiestl by two years. Both players will remain at GAK until summer 2027. This decision underlines the club's confidence in the potential of the two players and the club's strategy to focus on continuity in the long term. Laola1 reports that 31-year-old Christoph Nicht has been part of the GAK since the 2019/20 season and has played 57 competitive games during this time, including 11 without conceding a goal.

Although there is no Bundesliga debut in sight for him yet, Nicht is valued as an important team player by sporting director Dieter Elsneg. This highlights his experience and discipline, qualities that are crucial for the dynamic and often challenging environment in the Bundesliga. Not's signing could also be important for the development of the club's youth players, as his years of experience provide valuable insight.

Thomas Schiestl: An up-and-coming talent

In contrast, Thomas Schiestl, at 23, is a young and up-and-coming player who has only been playing at GAK since the summer of 2022, when he came from FC Liefering. In the 2024/25 season he was able to play his first Bundesliga minutes in a new position before an ankle injury set him back. Despite these setbacks, Schiestl is optimistic about wanting to attack again. In a total of 39 competitive appearances he was able to score 7 goals, thus underlining his talent. League portal reports that Elsneg also sees great potential in Schiestl and sees his contract extension as a positive sign for the club's future.

Schiestl expressed his joy about the contract extension and the associated trust of the club, which is enormously important in today's football. In a business that thrives on competitive performance and development, it is crucial that players feel valued in their work environment. A positive relationship with coaching staff and management can not only improve athletic performance, but also promote personal development.

The context for career planning in football

Football careers are often influenced by various factors, including athletic performance improvements, financial decisions and digital presence, which are crucial to player branding. How Football reporter notes, effective career planning is essential. Players should seek high-level experience early on and build a strong network with coaches, scouts and agencies to maximize career opportunities.

The daily training, the strict regime of a professional footballer and the correct management of one's own career are crucial for long-term success. In this regard, the GAK offers a solid basis for further development and career improvement for both more experienced players such as Christoph Nicht and the up-and-coming talent Thomas Schiestl.