Mehmet Can Aydin: Thankful for the chance to impress

Schalke will be looking to be more dangerous in the final third than they have been in recent weeks this weekend. “We have been working on creating more chances in training this week,” revealed Aydin, who also believes the wing backs and two central midfielders need to support the strikers more. “We’ve got great strikers that will take chances if we provide them with them.”

Pay back the confidence with good performances

Aydin has featured 11 times in all competitions this season, starting both of the last two games. “I’m really thankful that the coach has given me plenty of chances to impress,” stated the 19-year-old, who wants to pay back Dimitrios Grammozis with good performances. Aydin also has a good relationship with Reinhold Ranftl. “He’s pleased for me when I play well and it’s the same the other way round.” Despite both players competing for the same position, they still get on well and push each other to perform.

The youngster has been receiving tips on how to improve his game, such as his crossing, from his teammate on the other flank, Thomas Ouwejan. “I speak a lot with Thomas. I like to call him David Beckham because of how good his crosses are.”

Aydin is also in regular contact with a Germany international, who spent one year in the Schalke academy. “Ilkay Gündogan is like a big brother to me,” commented Aydin. “He praises me when I play well and I can ask him for advice when I have a bad game, added Aydin. “I can learn a lot from him. After all, he often captains Manchester City. I’m really grateful to have such a relationship with him.”