Gernot Trauner

Written by Andreas Haguenauer and Lukas Zahrer for Der Standard:

Gernot Trauner is not a man who takes many risks. The defender is known for his uncompromising style, strength in one-on-ones and aerial prowess. Yet his move to Feyenoord in 2021 was a gamble: it was his first time playing abroad, and at 29, he was almost entering the autumn of his career. So why make a change at this stage? "I thought I would play for Linz for ever," he admitted. Then came the offer from Feyenoord. Trauner: "Interesting club, cool city. If I was ever going to make a move, it had to be now." The risk paid off as he is not only liked in Rotterdam, he is loved. Trauner made an immediate impact, quickly became a regular starter and then captain and won both the league and the cup with his new club. Affectionately, they call him "Kale Klatser" in reference to his being bald or "the pharmacist," because, er, he looks like one. His trademark look, which includes a nasal strip, became a hit with the fans. Bernard Schuiteman, a former scout at Feyenoord, explains why Trauner has fitted in so well at the club: "Rotterdam is a port city. The people work hard, are grounded, and anything but arrogant. They like someone who is down-to-earth, just like Gernot.“