Kolasinac and Huntelaar to leave Schalke

“On a sporting and personal front, it’s a painful decision to have to make,” said Peter Knäbel, FC Schalke 04 board member for sport and communication. “Considering the current budget and squad structure – well-known challenges that have been openly discussed – there was no alternative,” said Knäbel. “We also can’t afford to spend weeks going back and forth given that we have a short pre-season and how quickly the new campaign will come about; we have to make decisions in Schalke 04’s best interests now. That is why this step is necessary.”

The management also felt an obligation to the players to clear up their futures as soon as possible. “Sead and Klaas-Jan deserve that at least. We’re very grateful that they supported their beloved club for this past six months to the best of their ability. You could always sense how much Schalke 04 means to them and the connection they feel to the club. We would like to say thank you for the incredible passion and support that they showed the club in this difficult period, and wish them all the best for the future both on and off the pitch.”