Despite a strong second half of the season, FC Schalke 04 has to make the bitter transition to the 2nd Bundesliga. Ex-coach Huub Stevens trusts the miners but the direct resurgence.
Stevens coach Thomas Reis sees this as a big plus. “The most important thing is that Schalke has a coach in Thomas Reis who fits in and stays with the club,” said the Dutchman in an interview with “Sport Bild”.
What Stevens values most about Reis is his honesty. “He doesn’t tell the team any nonsense. You can take his word for it. And: He names mistakes very clearly. As a Schalke coach, you’re not allowed to talk around it in the dressing room,” emphasized the 69-year-old.
Therefore, Reis is “the great hope” for Stevens.
However, it also depends on which players the Schalke bosses can keep and which newcomers are committed. “I hope that Schalke will be able to keep as many players as possible. For example Marius Bülter or Rodrigo Zalazar. That would increase the chances,” said Stevens and demanded: “And you have to find players who are passionate about Schalke.”
After all, a different type of football is played in the 2nd Bundesliga, “the opponents give 120 percent against Schalke”. Stevens followed up: “You definitely need players who can counter it. If Schalke can do that, they’ll get promoted again.”
Schröder separation “right step”
In the interview, Stevens also commented on ex-sports director Rouven Schröder, who is accused of complicity in the descent.
Even Stevens did not completely acquit the 47-year-old. “Rouven wanted to build something with Schalke. But then he saw that the squad from the first half of the season wasn’t working and that the squad couldn’t do it. He brought in players who never really arrived at Schalke,” she criticized trainer legend.
Schröder then became unhappy himself at Schalke. “And then working together doesn’t work anymore. The separation was so sudden and surprising, but the right step,” Stevens looked back.