Chaos in second division clubs
Farewell in summer? FC Schalke reacts to coaching statements
04/20/2025 – 10:32 p.m.Reading time: 2 min.
With the announcement of his farewell in summer, Schalke coach Kees van Wonderen had made headlines. Now the club is reacting.
Football second division Schalke 04, according to the critical statements of coach Kees van Wonderen, initially did not result in any personnel consequences. However, the statements of the Dutch within the club were discussed, it said in a statement. “The details of the conversations remain internally,” said Schalke and avoided further details. However, it became clear that the club management did not like the time, place or the way of the statements.
“Basically, we expect that we will discuss all critical points internally. It should and must be clearly and open there. We have to discuss with each other critically. However, such points have no place in public,” said Matthias Tillmann, CEO of FC Schalke 04, on behalf of the club management and sporting management. As part of the talks, there was also a direct exchange with van Wonderen. Overall, a “different approach from Van Wonderen was desired,” it said.
After the 2-2 draw against Hamburger SV, van Wonderen spoke openly about his future with the second division team on Sunday night. The Dutch said “Bild”, he assumed that his time at the club ends after this season. He wanted to “enjoy optimally” the four games outstanding. Other media such as “WAZ” and “Reviersport” also reported on his statements, which did not fall as part of the official press conference.
A conversation about a possible separation has so far not existed with the club, emphasized Van Wonderen. “But it is clear to me that I am no longer here after this season. All the signals are there. If we were on the same way, you would better exchange ideas. But that’s not the case,” he said. He explained that he heard that those responsible doubted him and complained about the lack of backing. He could deal with criticism, but you have to stand together. “And if that is not the case, or you doubt – then you can better go other ways.”
Van Wonderen had taken over the coaching position at Schalke in early October. His contract runs until the summer of 2026. In 22 games under his direction, the team scored 30 points. Most recently, names of possible successors circulated in various media for the coming season.