Schalker International: Aima Ariz Bin Arifzonardi

In our latest edition of our series ‘Schalker International’, where we’ll meet Schalke fans all over the globe and find out about how they came to love FC Schalke 04, we spoke to Aima Ariz Bin Arifzonardi from Indonesia.

Schalker International Indonesien

Why did you become a Schalke fan?
I became a Schalke fan after the Royal Blues beat Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League. I felt there was something special about this club, so I decided to research FC Schalke 04 on the internet, learning about the origins and history. Once I found out what I needed to know, I’ve loved the club ever since.

What’s supporting Schalke like in Indonesia? Are we popular?
Over the last 10 years, more and more people have started to know about Schalke in Indonesia, especially in big cities such as Jakarta. The most popular team, though, is FC Bayern. As far as I know, I’m the only Schalke fan in the city I live in.

Have you ever been to Germany or seen Schalke play?
I’ve only ever watched Schalke on TV, but I hope one day I can make it over to Germany and visit the VELTINS-Arena.

The club’s tradition, history and culture are unique in my opinion and something special.

Aima Arifzonardi

Who is your all-time favourite Schalke player?
To be honest, I have always preferred the players that have fought together. Ultimately, I just love Schalke for the club and not the individual players. The most complete squad was in 1999/2000 or 2010/11.

What’s your most memorable Schalke game?
When Atsuto Uchida set up two goals in the 2-1 Revierderby win against Dortmund in 2012/13 or the aforementioned Champions League quarterfinal against Inter in 2010/11.

What makes Schalke special?
The unity. As a Schalke fan, you feel like you are part of one big family, even though I don’t know and have never met any other Schalke fans! The club’s tradition, history and culture are unique in my opinion and something special. The club has such loyal fans, who aren’t just fans in good times and don’t just support the club because of particular players.

Finally, why would you recommend supporting Schalke?
To Schalke fans in Indonesia (and across the world): This is a big club in Germany with a unique culture and tradition, with a great history both domestically and internationally. The fans are 100% behind the club all the time and it is one of the best clubs in Germany and Europe.

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