Youri Mulder: We’re gearing up for the new season together

Mulder was greeted with loud applause from the Royal Blues’ supporters at the start of the Q&A. On this occasion, however, the reception was not actually intended for the Dutchman himself, but for a new face on the training pitch in Austria. “A very warm welcome to Max Wöber,” said the director of professional football. The 57-year-old was just as pleased with the centre-back’s arrival as the travelling Schalke fans: “I’m delighted Max is here. Now we’re gearing up for the new season together.”

Wednesday’s game against FC Kharkiv was another step in that process, with Mulder describing the friendly as “very positive”. “They made it difficult for us and are further along in their preparations. When you’re working towards full fitness, these are exactly the kind of games you need alongside training to build match sharpness.” In the 2-0 win, the Royal Blues continued to put head coach Miron Muslic’s ideas into practice while also producing an encouraging performance, both technically and tactically, against opponents who are already further ahead physically.

The one downside against the Ukrainian side was an injury to Luca Vozar, who took a blow to the back late in the game. Mulder was able to provide a positive update on the youngster. “He’s doing well considering the circumstances. Luca will need to take a break for now, but thankfully it’s nothing too serious.” The 19-year-old will remain with the squad until the end of the training camp, news which was also greeted with loud applause from the fans.

During his conversation with host Kristina Laaser, Mulder, himself a former top-class striker, also turned his attention to one of Schalke’s current frontmen: Moussa Sylla. The forward scored his third goal in as many pre-season friendlies against Kharkiv. “I really like what I’m seeing from him at the moment,” said Mulder. “Moussa is really sharp and always fully switched on in training. He’s doing really well.” But his praise was not limited to Schalke’s number 9, with Mulder also highlighting the rest of the attacking options: “Whether it’s Junior Adamu, Bryan Lasme, Christian Gomis or Kenan Karaman, they’ve all made a good impression.”

Mulder has also been keeping a close eye on the U23 players who travelled to the Stubai Valley, saying they had “been right in the thick of things” both in training and against the Ukrainian side. “[Head coach] Jakob Fimpel is doing a very good job with the U23s, and his players have shown their quality here,” said the 57-year-old. Edion Gashi was one of those to catch the eye, setting up Bryan Lasme for the second goal in the 2-0 win over the Ukrainian top-flight side.

Mulder also offered a few personal insights as he answered several questions from the fans towards the end of the session. It was a fitting conclusion to an entertaining exchange and drew another round of loud applause from the stand before Mulder stayed behind to pose for photos and sign autographs.