Outstanding or Hazardous? - New leader dismisses previous Schalke team.
Due to Königsklamm's financial struggles (a debt of 168 million euros and a negative equity of 103 million euros), CEO Matthias Tillmann (40, started in January) is implementing massive layoffs in the performance center (13 players, 3 coaches, staff).
This bold move aims to revamp the crisis-ridden club and make it successful once again...
Genius or reckless? New management eliminates older Schalke!
► Famous names like Mike Büskens (56, former co-trainer) and previously Gerald Asamoah (45, head of the licensed players department) were let go, raising concerns throughout the club. Although "Buyo" is rumored to get a mercy job in the Knappenschmiede, both men were seen as part of the problem.
► CEO Tillmann places his hopes in Ben Manga (55), who is taking over as the squad planner (recently at Watford, previously had successful years at Frankfurt). Manga is tasked with assembling a future promotion team with limited funds. He intends to mostly sign foreign talent and may even recruit an integration expert.
It seems like Manga is the most powerful figure.
► While sporting director Marc Wilmots (55) and coach Karel Geraerts (42) appear to be losing power in this massive restructuring, internal sources indicate that excitement for the two feisty Belgians has dwindled. If either Geraerts (contract until 2025) or Wilmots were to revoke their loyalty, the club is prepared to release them for a fee. Tired Wilmots might also be replaced.
However, the risk here is that if there's a major disagreement between Manga and Wilmots or Geraerts about transfers, Tillmann may also need to replace the sporting director and the coach.
The club hasn't yet secured a new main sponsor. Everything is currently uncertain.
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Source: symclub.org
