Werder Bremen’s Mitchell Weiser reflects on year-long ACL recovery: “I’m grateful for the experience.” | OneFootball

Werder Bremen veteran Mitchell Weiser has spoken candidly about the physical and emotional difficulties he encountered during his year-long recovery from a serious knee injury. Weiser suffered an ACL tear during training on July 16, 2025. The injury ultimately prevented the versatile right-back from making a competitive appearance throughout the entire 2025/26 campaign.

The 32-year-old has now begun taking part in portions of Werder’s preseason training program. Weiser was partially integrated into team exercises during the club’s training camp in Austria, though he continued to work without physical contact. A definitive return date has not yet been established.

Werder head coach Daniel Thioune insisted that the club would not rush one of its most experienced players back into competitive action. Weiser himself – having never experienced something like this in a career that featured many lows – noted that he at least learned of another thing he cannot take for granted. 

Mitchell Weiser on the emotional low point of his recovery

Weiser admitted that he had initially hoped to return before the conclusion of last season. Missing that objective left the former Bayern Munich, Hertha and Bayer Leverkusen player struggling emotionally.

“I didn’t stress myself out about it, but returning last season was definitely a major goal,” Weiser – as quoted by Kicker – said. “When that didn’t work out, I was in a bit of a slump. Torn ligaments or other minor aches and pains. But a torn cruciate ligament was something completely different.”

“You ask yourself: ‘Why is it taking so long?’” Weiser continued. “And also: ‘What if it never gets better again?’ I’ve been through a lot, but never anything like this. I see it positively now because I’ve learned so much from it. It’s crazy to say this, but I’m grateful for the experience.”

Weiser eager to appreciate the Weserstadion atmosphere

The injury has also renewed Weiser’s appreciation for playing in front of Werder’s supporters.

“It’s absolutely insane to play in front of 42,000 fans at the Weserstadion,” he said. “You lose sight of that over time. For the rest of my career—which I hope will last a long time—I’ve resolved to enjoy that even more. I’ll draw a lot of strength from this time. I can become better than before.”

GGFN | Peter Weis