Muslic 'grateful' as Schalke seal Bundesliga return | OneFootball

Schalke sealed a long-awaited Bundesliga return with a 1-0 win over Fortuna Düsseldorf at Veltins-Arena, head coach Miron Muslic overcome with emotion as promotion was confirmed for the first time since 2023.

Knowing victory would do it, captain Kenan Karaman struck in the first half to settle the contest. “I’m very grateful. From day one, I had the feeling that I was accepted here just as I am,” he told Sky.

Muslic has engineered a striking turnaround amid financial uncertainty and boardroom instability. A side that finished just three points above last season’s relegation play-off has now earned automatic promotion. His contract has automatically extended until 2028.

A bold mid-season tactical shift proved decisive, helped by additions. Chief among them, 40-year-old Edin Džeko, whose six goals in nine games were invaluable. Asked about his future and the prospect of the Dortmund derby, he said: “Let’s see. First, we celebrate. But I am very, very happy that I made the decision to join FC Schalke. We want to finish first.”

Karaman’s winner was his 14th of the campaign. “The last few years haven’t been easy. Now a huge weight has been lifted. I’m incredibly proud, especially of the team,” said the captain.

He added with a smile that they would celebrate, calling it party time. Attention now turns to Paderborn tomorrow. Anything other than a win for Ralf Kettemann’s side would see Schalke crowned champions.

Source: BuLi News