Sascha Riether: It drives the whole team on

It’s an unusual time for everyone right now – and the Schalke players are having to deal with new things every day. Football clubs currently have to adhere to a number of different guidelines set by the authorities due to the coronavirus crisis. Sascha Riether, coordinator between players and coaching staff, explains how these measures are affecting the day-to-day workings of the club. “Everybody has to report every morning if they have any symptoms or not,” reported the former professional player. “If they do have symptoms, they won’t be allowed onto the site.”

After the players get changed alone in the changing rooms, they begin training in small groups at staggered times. They keep a distance from each other, and tackles are not permitted. “We are following the recommendations made by the public health department. It’s a lot of work, but if it means that we can play football again soon, then it’s worth it,” acknowledged Riether.

Riether was quick to praise the fitness coaches at the club. “They have managed to mix the training plans up really well,” said the former right-back, who compared the current time to pre-season. “The lads have put a lot of hard work in, they’ve had to do a lot of running.” Dr. Andreas Schlumberger, the leader of fitness and prevention at S04, and his team have had the S04 players doing a lot of work recently. “The fitness team have really driven the players. They have prepared thoroughly professional sessions,” reported Riether. “The lads are really happy to be back out there. They’ve got a lot of energy and are extremely motivated.”

Positive news regarding Mascarell and Kabak

The 37-year-old also gave some updates on the injured first-team players. There is positive news regarding Omar Mascarell and Ozan Kabak – both are ahead of schedule. “The doctor has never seen a healing process go as well as it has for Omar before. We are confident that we will see him back out on the pitch again this season.” Kabak’s recovery is also going extremely well, and the defender is currently doing some running.

Benjamin Stambouli, like Kabak, is doing some running exercises too. Daniel Caligiuri and Salif Sané are already back in team training, although their workloads are being managed. Riether added: “Having the long-term absentees back out on the pitch is driving the whole team on.”