Edin Džeko is set to make his long-awaited return as Schalke prepare for a crucial Bundesliga promotion decider on Saturday. The veteran striker, now 40, has recovered from a shoulder injury sustained during Bosnia-Herzegovina's World Cup play-off victory against Italy in late March.

Coach Miron Muslić confirmed the good news on Thursday, stating that Džeko has fully participated in team training and will be available for selection. "Edin was on the pitch with the team today and took part in everything. He will return to the squad. When we need him, he'll be there," Muslić said. "He wants to get back into the attack and help."

Džeko's return couldn't come at a better time for Schalke, who need just one more win to secure their return to the Bundesliga after three seasons in the second division. The former Wolfsburg, Manchester City, and Inter Milan star has been a revelation since his surprise January signing, notching six goals and four assists in just eight appearances before his injury layoff.

Standing between Schalke and promotion are Fortuna Düsseldorf, who will face a fired-up Royal Blues side at the Veltins-Arena on Saturday night. "We know that we can only take that final step if we build on our performances from the last few weeks," Muslić emphasized.

However, the coach also took the opportunity to address the fans directly, urging them to celebrate responsibly. "We need your support. But we also need your discipline. The pitch is for the players," he said. "We want to celebrate together with you after the match. We will give our all for that. But we need your support. Invading the pitch is an absolute no-go."

The warning comes with good reason. Schalke's last promotion in 2022 was marred by a dangerous pitch invasion that left several fans injured, with police director Peter Both later describing the scene as one that "could have ended in a catastrophe." The stadium's steep stands—up to four meters high in some sections—make any pitch invasion particularly hazardous.

With Džeko back in the fold and promotion within touching distance, Saturday promises to be an emotional night in Gelsenkirchen. Whether it's a celebration of triumph or a setback on the road back to Germany's top flight, one thing is certain: the football world will be watching.