FC Schalke 04 vs. BVB: Kenan Karaman could not have imagined a better moment for his debut goal at S04.
In the 14th competitive game for Gelsenkirchen, the 29-year-old became the Royal Blues’ derby hero with his header in the euphorically acclaimed 2-2 win over archrival Borussia Dortmund on Saturday.
“Scoring my first goal in the derby of all places: an amazing feeling. I couldn’t have imagined it any better,” said Karaman and added: “You can shoot yourself into the hearts of Schalke that way.”
In his 14 games, Karaman only started four times. “My situation wasn’t easy. I worked hard, always believed in myself and also tried to push the lads in training and subordinate myself to the goal,” he said. The goal is to stay up in the league – and Schalke still has every chance in the fight to stay in the Bundesliga.
“It feels like a win for us. We’re in a relegation battle. For us, every point is worth its weight in gold,” said Karaman about the draw against BVB.
Schalke coach Reis praises Karaman
“I had an open conversation with the coach. I told him that no matter what, I stand by him and submit to the team,” he said, referring to coach Thomas Reis, who has so far mainly relied on Karaman’s competitors. Reis said of Karaman’s goal: “I’m happy for him because he has invested a lot and has already been viewed critically.”
In order to recommend and improve, Karaman worked harder than usual. “I worked a lot of extra shifts – privately with a personal trainer,” he explained. The striker is now hoping that the sense of achievement in the derby will give him a boost.
“I hope that I can take that with me over the next few weeks. I just want to do everything to ensure that Schalke stays in.”