Ryan Mmaee, the 26-year-old striker, has made a move from Stoke City to SK Rapid Wien on a season-long loan. Since his arrival at Stoke from Ferencvaros in the summer of 2023, Mmaee has faced challenges in securing a regular starting position, partly due to injuries. This season, with the signings of Tom Cannon, Sam Gallagher, and Lewis Koumas, along with the development of Emre Tezgel, his playing time was set to be limited.

Despite being fit for the last two games, Mmaee sought clarification on his role in the squad from manager Steven Schumacher. Following a failed late loan bid from Hull, Mmaee found an opportunity in Austria with SK Rapid Wien. Having made 27 Championship appearances for Stoke and scoring three goals, Mmaee is under contract with the club until 2026, with the loan deal rumored to include a purchase option.

Stoke’s Sporting director Jon Walters stated that Mmaee aims to secure more playing time, and thus, the loan move benefits all parties involved. SK Rapid Wien, having lost two forwards to injury, saw Mmaee as a valuable addition to their squad before the transfer window closed. Sporting director Markus Katzer expressed confidence in Mmaee’s abilities as an experienced and skilled striker, highlighting his European Cup experience and goal-scoring prowess, making him a welcome addition to the team under coach Robert Klauss.