Bundesliga bottom FC Schalke 04 is better prepared for relegation than two years ago. “At that time we rushed into the second division with a Champions League team, everything had to be turned around, we had to cope with a huge loss in value,” said CEO Bernd Schröder in an interview with “Funke Sport”.
“This time we already have a squad of players who also have contracts for the 2nd division,” the club boss continued: “So there wouldn’t have to be a major upheaval. And we have a coach who fits 100% with Schalke, which is why I would also go into the second division with Thomas Reis, that is the clear stance of the board.”
At the end of October, Reis signed a contract that is said to be valid until 2024 and also in the 2nd division. During the winter break, sports director Peter Knäbel mainly signed players that Schalke also have a purchase option for the 2nd division.
Schröder believes that he has “fixed some deficits” with the winter transfers. Despite all the plans for relegation, the CEO has not yet given up hope: “There is still a chance that we will survive the league and not be relegated. I believe that deeply.”
FC Schalke 04 has developed a five-year plan
The fifth relegation in the club’s history would delay economic planning for the future.
“We made a five-year plan to get out of our liabilities,” explained Schröder: “If you have to do a year in the 2nd division, the plan will shift a bit.” Schalke had liabilities of more than 180 million euros last summer.
More than a year in the 2nd league would therefore pose major problems for the traditional club. “If it takes longer, Schalke would of course have to be rethought a bit,” said Schröder. “We’re a club with structures that are designed for the Bundesliga or even for European competitions.”
That’s why a place in the top six is still the long-term goal, “that may take five years or ten, maybe more, maybe less”. After the 0-0 start of the second half of the season against 1. FC Köln, Schalke are six points behind the first non-relegation zone.