“We demonstrated great balance over the course of both halves. The most important thing is that we implement our collective gameplan step-by-step and that we are able to see it come into fruition out on that pitch,” explained Muslic, for whom the match signified a successful end to a satisfactory first week of training.

Despite there still being room for improvement up until the opening competitive fixture, Muslic’s side were nevertheless already able to showcase some positive signs. “We were organised, had a good structure and remained compact. Our aim was to win the ball back as high up the pitch and as early as possible, in order to be ambitious in our play towards the opposing net and in order to score some goals. Therefore, I am very satisfied with our work,” analysed the Schalke head coach, who took charge of the Royal Blues from the side line for the first time.

Muslic was particularly praising of the younger squad members that featured. “The Knappenschmiede is an elite academy that has repeatedly produced outstanding players in the past,” he emphasised. “The task at hand now is to protect these lads in the best possible way and to develop them further in a targeted manner.”

Muslic does not want to lay all his cards on the table with regard to his preferred system: “Playing with a back three suits our current profile well. However, we want to remain flexible and not put all our eggs in one system’s basket,” told the head coach, who is very satisfied with the attitude and intensity exemplified by his players throughout the first few days. “Everyone has taken on board and implemented our training content well. I’m pleased that we have successfully completed the first week. We’ll be working on new key areas from Monday.”