Last Bundesliga game of 2021
©IMAGO
After the victory in the top game at SC Paderborn (3:2; watch the goals in the video here), FC Schalke 04 can gradually plan for the Bundesliga and thus also get down to business when it comes to open personnel issues. One of the construction sites was the future of goalkeeper Loris Karius, who had previously left his whereabouts open despite a contract valid until 2027. An extension now seems to be just a formality.
When asked whether he would also wear the Schalke jersey next year, Karius said in “Bild”: “Yes, I think so. Of course we will all exchange ideas again. But there is nothing against it. I have worked all year to ensure that we achieve promotion to the Bundesliga – of course I would be very happy to be there and on the pitch.” And apparently not just with one year left on his contract: “A little bit of planning security at my age would be nice,” he said.
Karius, who was signed as a player without a club in January 2025, prevailed in competition with Justin Heekeren before the season and developed into one of the best keepers in the 2nd Bundesliga. With 28 goals conceded, Schalke has by far the best defense, Karius remained undefeated in eleven of 28 games – a record. Next season he could be back on the field in the Bundesliga for the first time since February 28, 2021, when he was still in the service of Union Berlin.
Despite the positive signals, it will probably take a while before the signature is signed. The next conversation with sports director Frank Baumann is reportedly only planned after the game on Saturday (8:30 p.m.) against Fortuna Düsseldorf. If the promotion ceremony is postponed, the extension would also stall for the time being. However, Karius’ wish looks different: When asked about a promotion party including an extension until 2028, he said with a smile: “That actually doesn’t sound bad.”
