Schalke captain Kenan Karaman on the club's incredible season, the impact of Miron Muslić and looking forward to the Bundesliga
Schalke captain Kenan Karaman has been an instrumental part of their promotion push this season. With the club just one win away from sealing their return to the top flight, the 32-year-old Türkiye international attacker sat down to sum up the mood.
Bundesliga: How do you expect to feel going into the clash against Fortuna Düsseldorf at home this Saturday, knowing that a win will seal Bundesliga football next season?
Karaman: "Emotions will be running high and the fans will be very excited - we will be as well to some extent. But for those 90 minutes, we have to put our emotions aside, focus on the game, stay composed in our actions, and afterwards we can let the emotions run free.”
Bundesliga: What would promotion with Schalke mean to you personally?
Karaman: "It’s been my dream and my goal. When I signed my contract, I committed long-term because I had this exact vision - to play in the top division again with this club. It would mean a great deal to me.”
Watch: Schalke one game away from the big time
Bundesliga: What kind of excitement are you noticing across the city and region?
Karaman: “They’re extremely excited. People can't wait for promotion to the Bundesliga. After two difficult years, it would mean a lot to everyone connected to the club.”
Bundesliga: If you do get promoted, what would you most look forward to in the Bundesliga?
Karaman: "It would have to be the Revierderby [against Borussia Dortmund]."
Watch: Karaman scores in last derby vs. Dortmund
Bundesliga: You've experienced relegation before with Schalke, so it must be pleasing to have turned it around?
Karaman: "Yes, this is definitely the best period since I joined the club. The first years in Bundesliga 2 were difficult for the entire club, so I’m very pleased that we’re doing so well this year.”
Bundesliga: Could you possibly have imagined things would go so well at the start of the season?
Karaman: “After two poor seasons, you don’t set expectations too high. That was the same for me. I was simply glad that the club managed to establish clear structures. The coach has been a real asset from day one, setting the direction, and over time the belief grew that we could achieve something this season.”
Bundesliga: What are the secrets to Miron Muslić's success?
Karaman: "He has a clear plan and a clear vision, which he communicates every day. He demands a lot on the training pitch - that was something that had been missing in recent years. He sets the direction very clearly, and we try to follow it and deliver what he expects. He naturally brings a lot of energy too and doesn’t leave any room for doubt."
Bundesliga: How much of a boost was the signing of Edin Džeko in the winter?
Karaman: "Edin is a world-class player with an incredible career, and I knew straight away that he would help us. His goals have been hugely important, but his presence as a person and a character in the dressing room is also important. Having a leader like that, with his experience, is very valuable for the team.”
Watch: The best of Edin Džeko in Germany
Bundesliga: Finally, what do you feel about the fans, who are a famous part of Schalke and clearly in good spirits at the moment?
Karaman: “I like how direct people are here in the Ruhr area - they say exactly what they think. That can be positive or negative, and I appreciate that honesty. They show their emotions, and you have to be able to deal with that. I’ve had many great moments with the fans, especially after big wins.”
