Rouven Schröder: We need this togetherness

The scenes after the full-time whistle on Saturday (23/4) were very similar to those after matches in recent weeks. The team stood in front of the fans as they sang songs and celebrated their players. There was one key difference, however. After having won each of the last five games, the players were actually disappointed after this match, having lost 4-1 to SV Werder Bremen. Sporting director Rouven Schröder was quick to ensure that the players got their heads up after this defeat.

2. Bundesliga

24.04.22, 11:15

Rouven Schröder

For Schröder, a number of moments during the game that had gone in Schalke’s favour recently didn’t yesterday. “Werder were simply really clinical,” analysed Schröder, who also admitted his side made some mistakes too. “We were particularly sleepy from their set pieces at the start.” Schalke’s recent clinical nature in front of goal was also missing on Saturday, felt Schröder. “That’s how a game will go.”

Cut out the mistakes and lift heads up

Despite two early Werder goals in the second half that effectively killed the game off, Schalke never gave up. “We kept going right until the end. The team deserves praise for always believing in themselves,” commented Schröder. “That was only one game. Letting ourselves get too down over this would be totally wrong,” stressed the 46-year-old.

“We never lost track of reality and analysed the five wins as we always do – we looked at the good and bad moments. It’s important to me that we stay true to ourselves and analyse this game properly,” said Schröder.

I had goosebumps all over my body.

Rouven Schröder

“The way the fans supported us today makes me want to move the Sandhausen game forward!” added Schröder. “Even though we lost 4-1, the whole stadium was jumping up and down cheering for Schalke. I had goosebumps all over my body! Today gave everyone a reminder of how together the whole club is and how the fans have got our back.”

Focus turns to Sandhausen

This togetherness should be a key factor for the Knappen going into the final three games of the season. “We need this togetherness. We will need it again on Friday in Sandhausen. Many Schalke fans will travel down there to support us,” said the sporting director, who would happily make the trip already: “If it was up to me, we’d already get going!”

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