Kilian Ludewig: Everybody knows how much this derby means

“Everybody knows about the importance of the derby,” stressed Ludewig. “It’s Schalke vs. Dortmund and not much more needs to be said.” The rest of the team is also aware of the task ahead and are fully motivated, according to Ludewig. The right-back has previous derby experience, albeit from his time in FC St. Pauli’s academy against HSV between 2014 and 2015.

Settled in quickly

Ludewig has only been a Royal Blue for just over two weeks. “I was ready right away and was up for my new challenge,” explained the Germany U20s youth international. The team helped him settle in straight away too. “The first few days were great – the team helped me to integrate myself really quickly. I’m really happy to be playing for such a big club.”

Ludewig has impressed so far in the friendly against Paderborn and in the Bundesliga game against Union Berlin. “I want to perform consistently,” said the defender. “My aim is to work hard every day. I’m ready and willing to do this.”

The Royal Blues will need a strong team performance on Saturday for the 97th Revierderby in the Bundesliga. A good match plan – for both with and without the ball – will be key, says Ludewig. The defender is also well aware that the game against last season’s runners-up will not be an easy one. “Derbies are always hard-fought games – they mean everything and anything is possible!”