Kenan Karaman: The love is mutual

Kenan Karaman found himself watching the previous game in Elversberg from the sidelines, having been suspended due to accumulation of yellow cards. Not that he would have played anyway, as he was suffering from a muscle issue. There was a great sigh of relief ahead of Sunday’s game against Münster, as the Royal Blues’ top scorer with 13 goals this season declared himself fit to play. It was a team effort, according to Karaman: “The medical team and the coaching staff all helped me to get healthy again – I felt fit.”

After his opening goal on Sunday, the Royal Blues’ captain has now scored a header in each of the last three home games. His goal also means he has now netted at least 13 times in his last three 2. Bundesliga seasons. “It’s something I can be proud of,” said the 32-year-old. He added that his latest goal was by no means a fluke: “The cross from Dejan (Ljubičić) was fantastic.”

It comes as no surprise that Karaman is adored by the fans and was substituted off to his name being sung around the VELTINS-Arena on Sunday. “I think it’s very special,” said the captain. “The love is mutual.” The 32-year-old chose not to speak on his own achievements in his post-match interview, preferring instead to highlight the entire team. “I’m really pleased with the way we approached the game. It’s always difficult playing against the bottom side. The boys showed great concentration from the first minute, though.” He also spoke of a “power play” in the first half.

Karaman sees Schalke as “cohesive” in both attack and defence. As a striker, he was particularly pleased that his side managed to score four goals against Münster. “We’ve had tighter results in the past. Scoring four goals in a game will give the team even more self-confidence.” Such confidence will be essential for their next game against SC Paderborn 07 on Sunday (26/4). The captain made things clear: “We’re already focusing on the next game. A tough challenge awaits us in Paderborn.”