Isaac Schmidt: Swiss-Nigerian defender joins Young Boys from Leeds on long-term deal

Swiss-Nigerian left-back Isaac Schmidt has joined Young Boys from Leeds United on a long-term contract running until June 2030.

The 26-year-old defender returns to the Swiss Super League after a spell in England with Leeds, who he joined from FC St Gallen in August 2024. Schmidt spent part of his time on the books at Elland Road out on loan in Germany with Werder Bremen in the 2025-26 season before making the move back to Switzerland.

Born in Lausanne and standing at 1.72m, Schmidt is primarily a left-back but plays off his right foot. He has already built up significant experience in the Swiss top flight, making close to 100 Super League appearances and contributing goals and assists from defence, as well as featuring in domestic cup and European qualifying matches.

Before his move to England, Schmidt’s performances for St Gallen followed a breakthrough period at Lausanne-Sport, where he was part of a side that won the Swiss second-tier title in 2019-20. He later added an English Championship title with Leeds in 2024-25, underlining his experience in promotion-chasing environments.

Schmidt, whose market value is currently listed at €2.2m, came through the youth ranks in Lausanne and developed across various age-group sides before establishing himself as a senior professional. His new deal ties him to Young Boys until the summer of 2030 as he begins a fresh chapter back in his home country.