Bundesliga: Schalke Extends Contract with Homegrown Talent Becker Until 2030
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- German soccer club FC Schalke 04 has extended the contract of homegrown defender Vitalie Becker until 2030.
- Becker, 21, has been with the club since his U9 youth team and progressed through the academy.
- He played 21 games in the 2. Bundesliga last season and made his professional debut at the start of the season.
FC Schalke 04 has secured the long-term commitment of one of its promising young talents, extending the contract of homegrown defender Vitalie Becker until the summer of 2030. The 21-year-old defender has been a part of the club's fabric since his early youth days.
Becker joined the "Kรถnigsblauen" (the Royal Blues) at the Under-9 level and has diligently worked his way up through the club's renowned academy, the "Knappenschmiede." This progression culminated in his professional debut at the beginning of the last season against Hertha BSC.
"To be able to play in the Bundesliga with my club now is exceptionally beautiful," said Becker, who was born in Bottrop, upon signing his new contract. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "It is a privilege to make the leap to the professionals through the training in the Knappenschmiede and then to be able to play in the arena."
Last season, the young fullback made a significant contribution to the team, appearing in 21 matches in the 2. Bundesliga. His continued development and commitment signal a positive outlook for Schalke's defense in the coming years.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.