Miron Muslic: I’m glad things are finally getting going again

Miron Muslic had been counting down the days to the start of training. “I’m glad things are finally getting going again,” said the head coach, who lifted the 2. Bundesliga trophy with his side 49 days earlier. After a demanding season, the summer break gave the promotion-winning coach fresh energy, although his time away from football was anything but quiet. “I hadn’t been home for a longer spell in almost eleven months, so there were one or two things that needed sorting,” Muslic said with a smile. “My wife had me fully booked.” More than anything, though, the 43-year-old, whose family still live in Austria, enjoyed spending time with his loved ones.

The closer the first session came, the more the excitement grew. “We’re looking forward to every session and want to take another step forward every day,” explained the head coach. He was impressed to see so many fans at the opening session again, just as they had been last year. “It’s incredible. That’s Schalke!” said Muslic. “The fans give us an extra push. They were the game-changer in our promotion charge. We can always count on them.”

The atmosphere at the training ground was also a special experience for the new arrivals. “The lads could feel straight away what it means to sign for Schalke,” said Muslic. The Royal Blues have brought in two new players so far in Junior Adamu and Satoshi Tanaka. “They both have qualities that fit our idea of football perfectly. We’re very happy that Junior and Satoshi are now part of our team.” At the same time, Muslic made clear that squad planning is not yet complete. “There will still be movement in the coming weeks. That’s completely normal during pre-season.”

Excitement for the challenge ahead

After winning promotion, Schalke now have the Bundesliga to look forward to. “We’ll have to find another gear or two compared to last year, and that’s exactly what we want to do.” Germany’s top flight will test the team physically, athletically, technically, tactically and mentally. “It’s a challenge we’ll take on together,” said Muslic.

The 43-year-old believes his side are well prepared for what lies ahead in the Bundesliga. “Over the past twelve months, we’ve built a healthy foundation with our structure and organisation. Our principles will continue to guide us in the season ahead.” At the same time, the team will keep the flexibility that served them so well last year. “That was one of our strengths last season too. We’ll keep following our path consistently in the Bundesliga.”