Schalke's revival hinges on new coach, veteran signings and steadfast fans

Schalke’s recent saga includes a slide into financial crisis, a drop to the second tier and a brief, unsuccessful return to the Bundesliga. The hiring of Miron Muslic, previously of Plymouth Argyle, introduced an aggressive pressing system that propelled the team back to the top flight last season. In June 2025, former Werder Bremen director Frank Baumann joined the club, managing limited resources while supporting Muslic’s project.

High-profile acquisitions, most notably Edin Dzeko, have contributed crucial goals and experience, and veteran goalkeeper Loris Karius has re-established himself as a starter. Despite modest expectations, the club’s supporters—described as having a religious devotion—continue to fill the Veltins-Arena, highlighting Schalke’s cultural importance in Gelsenkirchen.