Fabian's last appearance in the Eintracht starting line-up came on 27 May 2017, against Borussia Dortmund in the DFB Cup final. What should have been a highlight for the Mexican – his first domestic showpiece – quickly turned into a nightmare, ushering in the toughest stage of the 28-year-old's career to date.
Slowly on the mend
While the Guadalajara native had long been suffering from back problems, appearing at the FIFA Confederations Cup for Mexico last summer took too much of a toll and in August 2017, Fabian went under the knife in Houston, Texas.
"The aim is for Marco to be back on the field in January 2018," said Board Member Fredi Bobic at the time, and although the timescale was accurate – Fabian featured in a friendly against Aue during the winter break – the playmaker required a little longer to return to full fitness. Substitute appearances against Augsburg (Matchday 21) and Stuttgart (Matchday 24) ensured the recovery continued slowly but surely.
Back in action for Mexico
There was a certain irony in the final stage of Fabian's recovery coming with the Mexican national team in March. Although his club-mate Carlos Salcedo suffered a shoulder injury while away, Fabian underlined his progress towards full fitness by scoring a fine free-kick in the friendly against Iceland.
"It's our responsibility to give a Mexican with such talent an opportunity in the national team," said coach Juan Carlos Osorio, singling out Fabian for praise.
Rebic out, Fabian in
Fabian's recovery continued apace upon his return to Germany; an early introduction against Werder Bremen after Ante Rebic picked up an injury was enough for the midfielder to impress upon Eintracht coach Niko Kovac that he was not only back, but fitter than ever.
Then came what Fabian had waited 317 days for: a starting berth for the 1-1 draw against Hoffenheim. "I knew my chance would come," he said. "Whenever I'm called upon, I'll be ready. I'm fit as a fiddle again and can't wait for the next few games."
