Vienna Strengthens Its Defense with Tobias Gruber
First Vienna FC 1894 continues along its chosen path and has secured another promising defensive addition with the signing of Tobias Gruber. The 21-year-old center-back joins Vienna-Döbling on a permanent transfer after seven years with Wolfsberger AC and will wear the blue-and-yellow jersey from the upcoming season onward.
Gruber joined the WAC academy in 2019 from FC Kleinarl and developed steadily through the club’s youth ranks. The 1.90-meter defender progressed through every age group of the Carinthian club, earned call-ups to Austria’s youth national teams, and represented the country at both U18 and U19 levels. He has also been included in the squad of Austria’s U21 national team.
Gruber made his first-team debut for Wolfsberger AC in December 2023 against FC Salzburg. During the 2024/25 season, he gained valuable playing experience as a cooperation player with SKU Amstetten, where he already worked successfully with Vienna head coach Patrick Enengl. He made 24 appearances in the ADMIRAL 2. Liga for the Mostviertel side and contributed five assists.
Towards the end of the 2024/25 campaign, WAC head coach Didi Kühbauer recalled Gruber to Wolfsberg ahead of schedule. He went on to make several important appearances during the decisive phase of the Bundesliga season and played his part in the club’s successful finish to the campaign. In total, the center-back has already made 13 appearances in Austria’s top flight.
Gruber now takes the next step in his development. With his permanent move to Vienna, he is expected to become an important figure in the Döbling club’s defensive unit.
Sporting Director Didi Elsneg commented on the new signing:
"Tobias is a player we have been monitoring for quite some time. With his height, athleticism, and understanding of the game, he possesses many of the qualities we are looking for in our style of play. Despite his young age, he has already gained Bundesliga experience and proven himself at the international youth level. We are convinced that he can take the next step with us while also helping our team immediately."
Tobias Gruber on his move to Vienna:
"Vienna is a traditional club with great ambitions and a clear sporting vision. The discussions with the club’s management were very convincing and showed me that this move is exactly the right step for my development. I’m looking forward to being successful together with the team, continuing to develop as a player, and playing in front of the Vienna fans."
Player Profile Tobias Gruber
- Date of Birth: January 10, 2005
- Height: 1.90 m
- Previous Club: Wolfsberger AC
- Position: Defender
