Matthias Sindelar was a centre-forward whose career defined the Austrian Wunderteam, the dominant national squad of the early 1930s. Known as the Paper Man due to his slight physique, he relied on agility and vision rather than raw power. His technical mastery allowed him to navigate opposing defensive lines, cementing his reputation as a foundational figure in European football.
Early Life and Entry into Professionalism
Born Matěj Šindelář on 10 February 1903 in Kozlov, he moved to Vienna in 1905. Settling in the Favoriten district, he grew up in a Czech-speaking community. He joined Hertha Vienna in 1918 at age fifteen, quickly progressing to the first team. A severe knee injury in 1923 and subsequent economic instability at Hertha forced him to consider early retirement. However, a successful meniscus surgery allowed him to return to the sport.
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Take the IQ test →Tenure at Austria Vienna
In 1924, he signed with SV Amateure, which became FK Austria Vienna in 1926. During an eleven-year period, he guided the club to five Austrian Cup victories and one league title in 1926. His leadership was further validated by two Mitropa Cup wins in 1933 and 1936. Throughout his tenure, he played 703 matches and scored 600 goals, earning his place in the club's 2001 Team of the Century.
International Dominance
Sindelar earned 43 caps for Austria between 1926 and 1937, scoring 26 goals. A key member of the Wunderteam, he helped capture the 1931–32 Central European International Cup. Although he initially struggled to maintain a place under coach Hugo Meisl, he secured his position after a 1931 match against Scotland. He served as team captain during the 1934 World Cup. Beyond his athletic achievements, he appeared in the 1938 film Roxy and the Wonderteam.
Fast facts
- Born: 10 February 1903, Kozlov
- Died: 23 January 1939, Vienna
- Position: Centre-forward
- Primary Clubs: Hertha Vienna, Austria Vienna
- International Caps: 43
- International Goals: 26
- Primary Honors: 1931-32 Central European International Cup
- Burial Site: Vienna Central Cemetery
Questions readers ask
Why was Matthias Sindelar called the Paper Man?
He earned the nickname Der Papierene due to his frail and slight physical build.
What was the Wunderteam?
The Wunderteam was a highly regarded Austrian national football squad of the early 1930s known for its fluid 2-3-5 formation.
