Arnautovic back in Austria: Is the comeback coming to Rapid Vienna?

Arnautovic back in Austria: Is the comeback coming to Rapid Vienna?

Marko Arnautovic, the Austrian football star, is once again at the center of transfer rumors as he is torn between Rapid Vienna's expectations and his current contract with Inter Milan. Arnautovic, who is under contract with Inter until the summer, could move to Rapid on a free transfer after his contract ends.

The connection between Arnautovic and Rapid is not new. The player played for Rapid in his youth as well as for other local clubs such as FAC, Vienna and Austria. According to a comment from Markus Katzer, Rapid's sporting director, Arnautovic could be an answer to the Viennese's offensive problems. Katzer praised Arnautovic's skills, which were particularly evident in the first leg against Serbia, and described him as a very good player. However, it remains to be seen whether Rapid will be able to realize the transfer, which also depends on Arnautovic's personal ideas, as Katzer noted in the Sky podcast "DAB|Der Audiobeweis". Katzer noted that no club in Austria would be against signing Arnautovic, including Rapid itself, and that there were concerns about the financial conditions.

The early years and the path to Rapid

Arnautovic's path into the professional football business began early. At the age of 14 he would have had the chance to switch to the Frank Stronach Academy, but he and his parents rejected this step. It was a drastic decision because the academy offered a technical school for computer and communications technology that was deemed unsuitable. Other coaches, including Ralf Muhr, expressed concerns about his physical development, but at the same time confirmed his athletic quality and his exceptional understanding of the game, which set him apart from other talents.

After a year in Twente's youth team, Arnautovic returned to Austria before moving to SK Rapid later in his career. During this phase, however, he had difficulty asserting himself against bigger and stronger players. A former coach mentioned an untold story about Arnautovic's departure after just one year at Rapid, which the player seems to have repeatedly seen as a challenge.

Current situations and possible transfers

All attention is currently focused on the upcoming summer transfers in the Austrian Bundesliga. According to kicker.at the next period will be crucial, not only for Rapid, but for the entire league, as other clubs are also looking for reinforcements. Arnautovic could play a key role here, especially if he decides to return to Rapid after his spell at Inter.

The talented offensive player's return to Rapid would certainly have a fundamental impact on both the player and the club. It remains exciting to see how the situation surrounding Arnautovic will develop and whether Rapid can take advantage of the opportunity to have such a brilliant player in their own ranks. Fans can definitely expect more information and developments.