Swiss defender Wallner, who rose to prominence after winning the Swiss league title with his hometown club FC Zurich two years ago, has chosen faith over football, ending his contract with Austrian Bundesliga side Blau-Weiss Linz by mutual consent.
The 22-year-old defender, who made 49 senior appearances for FC Zurich before joining Linz in September, cited his commitment to the Seventh-day Adventist Church as the reason for this decision. Members of the faith observe Saturday as their day of rest, which conflicts with the professional football schedule.
Wallner, who has represented Switzerland at youth level with ten caps, was once considered a future prospect for the senior national team. However, his journey at Blau-Weiss Linz, where he signed a two-year deal, was short-lived, with only five appearances for the Austrian top-flight side.
Despite stepping away from professional football, Wallner’s decision has drawn respect and sparked conversations about balancing personal beliefs with a demanding career.
Wallner insisted: “I am a devout Christian and I read the Bible. I make my own decisions about my life.
“I wish to follow Jesus Christ, and as a result, the biblical day of rest has become important to me.
“As a footballer this means that I no longer want to play professionally on Saturdays.
“This is my personal conviction, which I have reached in the last few days.
“I am not yet a member of any church.
“I want to thank with all my heart all the officials, staff and players at Blau-Weiss Linz.
“I also say a big thank you to all the people who have accompanied and supported me in my sporting career.”