It wasn’t enough: Despite an impressive race to catch up in the second half, FC Schalke 04 just missed out on staying up in the Bundesliga. Sports director Peter Knäbel is still optimistic about the future.
“I can’t just go straight to the agenda. But then you have to shake yourself and look constructively ahead,” explained the official after the Royal Blues were relegated, who lost 4-2 at RB Leipzig on Saturday.
He was “extremely proud”, emphasized Knäbel: “I will say thank you to a lot of people who worked in the dressing room, who represented the club worthy on the pitch.”
After a joint brunch on Sunday, some players will say goodbye. Several professionals were only on loan in Gelsenkirchen.
According to Knäbel, staying up in the league would have been “Variant A”. “But in variant B we already have a team from the contract portfolio that is absolutely impressive. We will try to further optimize it,” announced the 56-year-old.
Sebastian Polter is committed to FC Schalke 04
Attacker Sebastian Polter, who couldn’t hide his tears after the final whistle, would also like to help with the mission to get back up.
“It hurts a lot for each and every one of us. We spent a lot to have this final. Of course, the disappointment that we were relegated now outweighs it. I want to help build the whole thing again,” said the veteran.
In the second half of the season, FC Schalke had rolled up the field from behind with 22 points and temporarily left the relegation zone. Ultimately, however, the burden of the desolate Hinserie weighed too heavily.
Some important personnel decisions are expected in the coming days. One thing is certain: the miners absolutely want to go to the 2nd Bundesliga with coach Thomas Reis.