In 2014, Julian Draxler moved from FC Schalke 04 to the big football world. But the 29-year-old’s career has been stagnating for some time. Some 204 fans are already dreaming of his return. Sports director Peter Knäbel reacts to the speculation.
Julian Draxler is at a crossroads in his career. After a rather unsuccessful loan to Benfica, the ex-national player is currently back at Paris Saint-Germain, but no longer wanted there. Many a FC Schalke 04 fan dreams of a return of the “prodigal son” to the Royal Blues, where Draxler once started.
At the moment there is nothing in such a deal, said sports director Peter Knäbel in the WAZ podcast “fussball inside”. “Currently, the claim and reality are light years apart,” explained the 56-year-old.
In general, “we all” should be convinced of transfers to Schalke, said Knäbel. “The coach’s vote is important. But there are also framework conditions. In this respect, it is important that the interface between sport and finance works.”
Julian Draxler to Saudi Arabia instead of FC Schalke 04?
In addition to the S04 speculation, there have recently been increasing rumors that clubs from Saudi Arabia are interested in Draxler. As “Sky” reported, a transfer is not out of the question. Draxler’s contract with PSG runs until 2024, but his stay in Paris is almost impossible.
At his last station in Lisbon, Draxler could not recommend himself, mainly due to injury. In his first 18 games for Benfica he has managed just two goals and no assists. The former Schalke player was then slowed down by an injury to his left ankle.
Knäbel also explained the S04’s plan, announced in 2022, to attack the top 6 of the Bundesliga in the coming years.
“We want to get to the top six in six years,” said the sporting director. “But we know that it will be difficult. We have to dare to formulate ambitious goals. Clubs like SC Freiburg have come an amazing way. If we unleash our power, if we get rid of our financial liabilities, we can do it faster start an engine.”