[REVISION HISTORY]

Schalke secures Džeko extension and Gosens reunion

Updated 30 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-05 10:20 UTC → 2026-09-09 11:41 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Veteran striker Edin Džeko signed a one‑year extension with Schalke 04 through June 2027, rejecting interest from Serie A, MLS and other German clubs. His six goals and three assists in 11 matches were pivotal to the club’s promotion. Following the extension, coach Miron Muslic announced a new leadership structure for the upcoming Bundesliga season, expanding the captaincy to seven players. Džeko will wear the historic number 10 shirt and join club captain Kenan Karaman, goalkeeper Loris Karius, full‑back Robin Gosens, defender Nikola Katić, centre‑back Maximilian Wöber and defender Timo Becker. Muslic said the broader captain group is meant to spread responsibility and inject experience as Schalke consolidates its recovery from recent financial and sporting crises. In July 2026, Schalke secured the future of home‑grown centre‑back Mertcan Ayhan with a contract until 30 June 2030. A week later, the club announced the departure of Uruguayan midfielder Mauro Zalazar, who moved on a free transfer to Croatian side NK Kustošija Zagreb, with Schalke retaining a future sell‑on clause. By August 2026, Džeko finalized his extension following medical examinations. At 40, Džeko noted that while he is beginning to ‘feel his age’, his longevity is due to intensive training. He also expressed excitement about facing former captain Vincent Kompany, now coach of FC Bayern München. Alongside Džeko, Robin Gosens has returned to Schalke from Fiorentina, marking the third time the two players have shared a locker room. In ~~mid-August 2026, Džeko revealed that contract negotiations were initiated by Muslic in~~ early ~~July, shortly after the World Cup. In early~~ September 2026, Džeko reflected on his decision to stay with Schalke despite considering retirement and receiving various European ~~offers. He stated~~ offers, stating he chose the club to assist in their stabilization within the top flight. He also praised Kompany’s leadership and transition into coaching. However, by September 9, 2026, Džeko faced limited playing time, appearing only as a substitute in two Bundesliga matches.

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