News Focus
- FC Schalke 04 secured an immediate return to the Bundesliga under new management.
- Captain Kenan Karaman credits Miron Muslić with establishing clear structure and vision from the start.
- The Austrian–Bosnian coach extended his contract until 2028 following the successful promotion campaign.
- Karaman admits the squad initially kept expectations low after two difficult seasons.
- Muslić is praised for restoring high-intensity training standards and positive energy.
FC Schalke 04 captain Kenan Karaman has hailed head coach Miron Muslić as a vital figure in the club’s immediate return to Germany’s top flight. The Royal Blues secured promotion back to the Bundesliga during the 43-year-old’s debut season in charge, prompting the board to extend his deal until 2028.
Speaking to Bundesliga media, the Turkish striker explained how the former Plymouth Argyle boss transformed the atmosphere at the Veltins-Arena. “The manager proved his value from day one by setting a clear direction for everyone,” Karaman said. “As time went on, our belief grew that we could achieve something important this season.”
The forward confessed that optimism was scarce at the start of the campaign following two poor years. “After two difficult seasons, you do not set your sights too high. I felt the same. I was simply relieved that the club managed to establish proper structures,” he admitted.
According to the skipper, Muslić introduced organisation through daily communication of his vision and rigorous training standards. “He brought a clear plan and a definite picture of where we should go, which he repeats every day. His demands on the training pitch are high—something that was missing in recent years. He points the way forward very distinctly, and we try to follow and deliver what he expects. He does this very well,” Karaman elaborated.
The coach’s ability to transmit enthusiasm has also proved crucial. “It is simply his personality. He naturally brings a lot of energy, and you feel it in every training session. He is very clear in his work, and that helped us greatly at the beginning,” added the Schalke leader.