S04 and GAZPROM release a short documentary on the Knappenschmiede

Manuel Neuer, Leroy Sané, Julian Draxler, Mesut Özil, Benedikt Höwedes, Joel Matip. An illustrious list of players and stars, who, between them, have won league titles, cups, Champions Leagues and even the World Cup. One thing that connects this group of players is that they all came through Schalke’s academy, the Knappenschmiede. So many talented youngsters have been a part of S04’s youth setup over the years before going on to become a successful professional.

The Royal Blues’ academy has more than 200 players and over 100 members of staff who look to give the youngsters the best possible conditions in which to develop their footballing careers. What kinds of philosophies are instilled? What skills does a player need to become a pro? And what help do they need to succeed? Peter Knäbel, Mathias Schober, Norbert Elgert, Gerald Asamoah & Co. answer all these questions and much more in this short documentary about the Knappenschmiede.

A behind-the-scenes look

Together with main club sponsor GAZPROM, the documentary follows the work done behind the scenes at FC Schalke 04’s youth academy. The film was produced over several days last year by a four-man film crew following the coronavirus guidelines.

All Schalke fans can gain an exclusive insight into the average working day of Norbert Elgert and his U19s. Gerald Asamoah discusses the value of the U23s for the rest of the club and Christian Pander talks about his journey from the Knappenschmiede to the first team. Viewers can also see how much hard work is done behind the scenes by the staff for the football club. The Knappenschmiede’s boarding school is also on show in the documentary. Watch it here!