Schalke 04: Hechelmann wants to “be brave” in the winter transfer window

Don’t be afraid of further descent

Sports director André Hechelmann from FC Schalke 04 is not afraid of the traditional club falling into the 3rd league. “That will not happen. We know about the precarious snapshot. But we also know that there is a lot more to the team. “We are focusing on bringing this quality to the pitch,” said the 39-year-old in an interview with the “German Press Agency” and also commented on the upcoming winter transfer window.

When asked about the possible consequences of another relegation, Hechelmann said: “Please don’t get me wrong: I’m not concerned with relegation. Of course, it is our duty to prepare all scenarios and departments within the club do the same. But we in sport have to look forward to the short-term challenges and bring positivity.”

The former chief scout added: “Our head coach shows us this every day, and the players have to embody the required winning mentality every minute – otherwise there is no place for them at Schalke. That also means that we believe in our abilities and then we will take steps out of the bottom of the table.”

Schalke’s Hechelmann convinced by summer arrivals – “Be brave” in winter

Despite the sporting misery, Hechelmann is convinced of the quality of the squad and the summer newcomers. “Our new signings have shown at their previous positions that they have quality and were important players there. We signed them on that basis,” he said. “They haven’t delivered the quality regularly or consistently enough this season.”

With a view to transfers in the upcoming winter change period, he is in close contact with coach Karel Geraerts. Although Schalke has debts, the club is able to act. “The economic situation is what it is, you won’t hear any complaints from me,” said Hechelmann and added: “We have to be courageous and find the best options that fit Karel’s idea.” After the withdrawal announced for the summer From sports director Peter Knäbel, Hechelmann is even more in focus when planning the squad. Homegrown player Assan Ouédraogo (17), who is being watched by many top international clubs, could bring in millions.

After 13 games, the relegated team is third from bottom in the 2nd Bundesliga and has already changed coaches. Supervisory board chairman Axel Hefer recently announced in a “Kicker” interview that Schalke should initially stabilize, but that he sees the club in the Bundesliga in five years with an eye on the European Cup.

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