Austria monitor Paul Wanner after midfielder sits out training with calf issue

Background: Baumgartner's absence still felt

The concern comes against the backdrop of an already depleted Austrian midfield. Schöttel acknowledged that Christoph Baumgartner, who was left out of the tournament, remains a significant absence. "Fakt ist, dass mit Christoph Baumgartner ein absoluter Schlüsselspieler (für das Turnier) ausgefallen ist", sagte der ÖFB-Sportchef.

Christoph Baumgartner himself struck an upbeat note about his compatriot's form before the injury scare. "Ich glaube, der Pauli hat ein sehr, sehr gutes Spiel gemacht", Baumgartner said, praising the contribution against Argentina. He added: "Er war sehr, sehr aktiv, hat viele Ballaktionen gehabt."

Against Jordanien in the opening fixture, which Austria won 3-1, Konrad Laimer had been deployed in the role just behind the lone striker — a position considered unusual for him. "Der Konni interpretiert das natürlich ganz anders, in dem Spiel war auch etwas anderes gefordert", meinte Baumgartner, suggesting that the demands of the position differ from Laimer's usual brief.

Tactical options against Algeria

Pressed on comparisons with Baumgartner's own preferred role, Schöttel declined to draw parallels. "Ich will das alles gar nicht so mit mir vergleichen, weil wir ganz unterschiedliche Spielertypen sind, egal wer dann spielt." He added that plans for the Algeria match are already in place. "Aber wir werden auch für dieses Spiel eine Lösung finden."

Apart from Wanner, the full squad trained on Thursday morning before the squad's departure for Missouri. The session in Santa Barbara reflected Austria's preparation rhythm as the team transitions from California's west coast to the midwest venue.

Friday scan to decide availability

Austria head into the final group match needing a result to secure progress, with the Algeria game representing the third and decisive fixture of the group stage. The ÖFB has framed the situation as precautionary rather than alarming, pending the scan result.

The federation's cautious public messaging underlines the stakes: Austria have already lost Baumgartner for the tournament and cannot afford another midfield absence against an Algeria side aiming to advance. Friday's MRI will determine whether Wanner joins the squad's flight to Missouri or stays behind for further assessment.

Should Wanner be ruled out, Schöttel's remarks suggest Austria have rehearsed alternatives during their Santa Barbara camp. The coaching staff is expected to confirm Wanner's status after Friday's planned return to training, with the Algeria match less than 48 hours later.