Naldo and Omar Mascarell return for the Leipzig game

“It is a shame that we came away from Istanbul without a win after putting in a good performance,” Domenico Tedesco. Nevertheless, the game showed that the team are in a good state right now, according to the head coach. “We have moved on from out 2-0 loss to Werder Bremen. Our performance In Istanbul definitely gives us confidence for the game ahead,” said the 33-year-old.

Losing the ball to RB will be punishing

A confident performance will be necessary in the Red Bull Arena in order to beat the strong opposition. RB Leipzig are still unbeaten at home this season in the Bundesliga. They have earned 10 points at home and have scored 12 goals at home.

“Leipzig have a very strong team, a very fit team,” said Tedesco. “On one hand they are a patient team, but they are also extremely quick and direct in possession. Any time we lose the ball, they will be straight upon us. That was something our friends FC Nürnberg had to experience a few weeks ago.” RB Leipzig won the game 6-0.

Fährmann unavailable due to injury

Schalke must once again be without Ralf Fährmann. The captain is still out with a muscle injury. “He still has a few days until he can return;” said Tedesco, who has used Alexander Nübel between the sticks in the last couple games.

Naldo has recovered from illness and is back in contention for the starting line-up. The same applies to Oscar Mascarell, who missed the game in Istanbul due to muscle tightness. “Both are back and available,” said Tedesco, who gave no clues about his starting XI. “We still have two more training sessions before the game. We will decide after this.”