Schalke to start Bundesliga season without captain Karaman

Bundesliga returnees FC Schalke 04 face their season opener against FC Augsburg without their influential captain, top scorer, and emotional leader, Kenan Karaman. The 32-year-old forward has not recovered in time following a minor hip procedure.

Coach Miron Muslic confirmed Karaman's absence at a press conference, stating, "Kenan has not had a single training session with the team yet and will accordingly not be available." Karaman was instrumental in Schalke's promotion last season, scoring 14 goals and providing five assists, making him the team's best scorer.

Despite Karaman's absence, Schalke will have their full squad available for their first Bundesliga match since May 27, 2023. Muslic announced that new signings Edin Dzeko and Robin Gosens are set to feature in the game. "Both Edin and Robin will be on the pitch," the coach confirmed.

Muslic also shared a lighthearted moment, mentioning his meeting with NRW Minister-President Hendrik Wüst on the sidelines of a Schalke event. "I was very pleased about this really cool exchange," Muslic said, adding with a grin, "Even if he supports the wrong club with 1. FC Köln."