“Stable squad planning requires continuity.”

In an interview with Germany’s main sporting tabloid, acting Schalke 04 sporting director Peter Knäbel committed to keeping head-coach Thomas Reis in place even if the Ruhrpott club gets relegated this season. 

Speaking to Germany’s “Sport Bild”, Schalke boss Peter Knäbel unequivocally stated that he wished to keep current trainer Thomas Reis even in the event that die Königsblauen end up spending next season in the 2. Bundesliga. Knäbel left little room for interpretation with his words.

“Thomas will remain our coach in the coming season, and that’s without any stipulations,” Knäbel told Germany’s main sporting tabloid, “The style of play that he and his coaching team have instilled suits Schalke 04 very well. Operating in a stable basic structure, the team plays boldly and aggressively with a lot of energy on the pitch. Thomas sets an example with his presence every day.”

Schalke remain rock-bottom of the Bundesliga table on 13 points through 21 matchdays. The fact that the squad is still picking up points – most recently through a string of four consecutive 0-0 draws – nevertheless accords die Knappen some hope of escaping the drop. Schalke sit only six points from safety. Hoffenheim lie just above the relegation playoff place, in 15th place on 19 points. 

“Thomas also fully supports the medium-term orientation of the team and our commitment to generating squad value through the development of players,” Knäbel continued, “Stable squad planning requires continuity at the head-coaching position.”

“I know that I have a very good standing here and that my style is well received here,” Reis himself is quoted as saying, “I’ve been very well received here and I feel a lot of trust. I want to pay that back.”

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