News Focus
- Schalke 04 win the 2. Bundesliga title with two games left
- Kenan Karaman scores the only goal against Fortuna Düsseldorf
- The striker stayed at the club after they dropped down in 2021
- He contributed 14 goals and five assists this season
- Karaman cannot wait to face Borussia Dortmund in the Revierderby
FC Schalke 04 will play in the Bundesliga next season. They sealed promotion after beating Fortuna Düsseldorf 1-0 on Saturday night. Kenan Karaman scored the winner against his former club.
The victory also confirmed Schalke as champions of the 2. Bundesliga. They secured the title with two matches remaining in the season. Karaman spoke to the Bundesliga’s “Midweek Interviews” after the game.
The 30-year-old striker comes from Stuttgart. He joined Schalke before their relegation in 2021. He decided to stay with the team during their difficult spell in the second division.
“People here are extremely excited,” said Karaman. “They have waited a long time for this. The last two years were very hard for everyone at the club. This success means a lot to us.”
The former Turkey international has enjoyed his best season at the club. He found the net 14 times and set up five more goals. “I am very pleased with this year,” he added. “This is definitely the best period for me at Schalke.”
Karaman explained why he stayed loyal. “It was my dream to bring this club back to the top division. When I signed my contract, I committed for the long term. I wanted to play Bundesliga football with Schalke again. I have shared great moments with our fans.”
He also praised the supporters in the region. “This club has amazing history. The people here make it special. Their connection to the team is rare.”
Karaman scored his first goal for Schalke three years ago. It came in a derby match against Borussia Dortmund. At the end of his interview, they asked which game he looks forward to most. His answer was simple: “Revierderby”.