The roar of the Veltins-Arena was deafening on Saturday night as Schalke 04 sealed their long-awaited return to the Bundesliga. A single goal from captain Kenan Karaman was enough to edge past Fortuna Düsseldorf, securing the 2. Bundesliga title with two games to spare. For the Royal Blues, it’s the end of a two-year exile in Germany’s second tier—and the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable homecoming.
Speaking in the Bundesliga’s “Midweek Interviews” segment, Karaman couldn’t hide his excitement. “The city is buzzing. People have been waiting for this moment,” he said. “After two difficult years, this promotion means everything to everyone connected to the club.” The Stuttgart-born forward knows the pain of relegation better than most—he suffered it in his first season at Schalke. But instead of jumping ship, he stayed to help rebuild. “The last two years in the second division were tough for the whole club, so I’m really happy we’re doing so well this season. This is definitely the best period for me here,” he added, reflecting on his impressive tally of 14 goals and 5 assists.
For Karaman, this promotion is personal. “It’s been my dream and my goal. When I signed my contract, I committed long-term because I had this exact vision of playing in the top division again with this club,” he explained. “I’ve had so many great moments with the fans, especially after big wins.” He also highlighted what makes Schalke truly special: “The club has an incredible history, but it’s the people in the region that make it a big club. The connection they have with the team is something you rarely see anywhere else.”
As the interview wound down, the question everyone wanted answered came up: what are you most looking forward to next season? Karaman’s reply was immediate and electric: “The Revierderby.” It’s a fitting answer—three years ago, he scored his first Schalke goal in that very fixture against Borussia Dortmund. Now, with promotion secured, the stage is set for another chapter in one of football’s fiercest rivalries. Get your scarves ready, Schalke fans—the Bundesliga is back, and the derby is calling.