Naldo: I always keep guard during celebrations

Naldo, what was the atmosphere like in the changing rooms in Augsburg at the end of the game?

Phenomenal. We were all so happy, hugging each other and of course, we celebrated. It’s our just reward for a brilliant season. It’s been a long time since Schalke have had such a good season. As the oldest player, I had the job to look out for everyone during the celebrations (laughs).

The man who plays alongside you, Thilo Kehrer, got a brace in Augsburg. What do you think of his development this season?

He had already shown the qualities he possesses last season. I think Thilo has a super future ahead of him, as long as he stays fit and healthy. I am really happy that he has done such a good job for us. That also goes for Matija Nastasic, Benjamin Stambouli and the rest of the squad. We have an amazing team.

You said at the start of the season that it would be a dream to play in the Champions League again…

It’s true. And we have made the dream come true. I am so happy that we are going to be rubbing shoulders with the best teams in Europe next season. The last time I played in the Champions League was with VfL Wolfsburg. The games are just something else – incredible.

What has been your recipe for success?

We have given our all every weekend and worked really hard in training. As well as that, everyone in the team has a clear role and every player has carried out that role brilliantly.

And the leader of all of this is Domenico Tedesco…

The boss has played a massive role in this successful season, of course. He has kept on bringing in new ideas and added impetus and always has our backs. As well as that, Domenico Tedesco always prepares us so well for each game. I felt it in the training camp last summer – the boss suits us and we suit him really well.