News Focus
- FC Schalke 04 clinch immediate promotion to Bundesliga with two matches remaining
- Club captain Kenan Karaman praises Edin Džeko’s impact since his free transfer arrival
- 40-year-old Bosnia striker returns from injury during decisive victory over Fortuna Düsseldorf
- Karaman also credits board member Frank Baumann for bringing stability and calm to the club
FC Schalke 04 have sealed an instant return to Germany’s top flight by winning the 2. Bundesliga title with two games to spare. The Royal Blues secured their promotion following a crucial victory against Fortuna Düsseldorf, ending a two-year absence from the Bundesliga.
Club captain Kenan Karaman has singled out veteran forward Edin Džeko for special praise after the match. The 40-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina international marked his comeback from a shoulder injury in the clash, having missed action since suffering the problem during his country’s shock World Cup qualifying win over Italy.
Since joining the Gelsenkirchen side on a free transfer earlier this season, the former Manchester City and Roma striker has netted six times in just eight appearances. However, Karaman insists the forward’s influence extends far beyond the penalty area. He highlighted Džeko’s leadership qualities and positive presence inside the dressing room as equally vital to the team’s success.
The skipper believes the experienced forward made a deliberate choice to join a massive club with passionate supporters. He stated that Džeko fully understands that Schalke belongs in the top division and brought that winning mentality to the squad.
Karaman also applauded the recent appointment of Frank Baumann to the board. He credited the former Werder Bremen sporting director with changing the club’s approach through his calm authority and extensive experience, which have proven invaluable during the promotion campaign.