Biography
Paul Scharner, born on March 11, 1980, in Wien, Austria, is a former professional footballer known for his versatility on the field, primarily playing as a defender or midfielder. He began his career at Austria Wien, where he made his professional debut in 1998. Scharner's early success with the club included winning the Austrian Bundesliga and the Austrian Cup, establishing him as one of the notable talents in Austrian football.
In 2001, Scharner moved to the Netherlands to join FC Groningen, where he continued to develop his career before transferring to Wigan Athletic in the English Premier League in 2006. During his time at Wigan, he became known for his distinctive playing style and played a pivotal role in helping the team secure their first major trophy, the FA Cup, in 2013. After stints at various clubs including West Bromwich Albion and Austria Wien, he retired from professional football in 2015.
Following his playing career, Scharner was recognized for his contributions to Austrian football, earning over 30 caps for the national team between 2004 and 2010. His legacy is marked by his adaptability on the pitch and his impact in both domestic and international competitions, making him a respected figure in Austrian football history.