Schalke 04 staff and players defend Edin Džeko

Schalke 04 players and staff have come to the defense of Edin Džeko following recent criticisms regarding his performance and role within the team. After a loss to Mainz, club director Youri Mulder suggested that Džeko might be most effective as a substitute to provide impact in the final 20 minutes of matches, noting that the team must adapt its playstyle to suit his specific qualities rather than sending long balls into empty space.

Teammate Robin Gosens also supported the veteran striker, emphasizing Džeko’s exceptional quality and his ability to motivate the squad through his presence and aura. While media outlets like Bild have questioned his effectiveness, Schalke coach Miron Muslić disagreed with the idea of using him primarily as a reserve, arguing that the team failed to utilize Džeko’s strengths in combination play and penalty area positioning during recent matches.

Džeko has recently returned to individual training following a knee injury. His availability for the upcoming match against 1. FC Köln remains uncertain.