On May 2, 2026, Schalke 04 celebrated their return to the Bundesliga with a decisive home victory against Fortuna Düsseldorf, marking a significant turnaround after years of struggle. The atmosphere at the Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen was electric, with fans roaring as they anticipated this momentous occasion.
The match kicked off at 15:30 local time, and it didn’t take long for Schalke to assert their dominance. In the 15th minute, Kenan Karaman found the back of the net, scoring the only goal of the match. His precise shot from just outside the box sent waves of jubilation through the stands, and his teammates rushed to embrace him.
This victory not only secured automatic promotion back to the Bundesliga for Schalke but also extended their unbeaten league run to 12 games. It was a remarkable feat considering they had faced relegation just three years prior after a disastrous campaign in the 2020/21 season.
Schalke’s home form has been outstanding this season, with only one defeat at home. Their five consecutive victories have propelled them into a strong position to clinch the second division title ahead of Paderborn. The club’s resurgence can be attributed to key figures like head coach Miron Muslic, who transformed a struggling team into promotion contenders.
Fans packed into Veltins Arena—an impressive attendance of 61,587—witnessed not only a crucial match but also a symbolic moment for their club. As Karaman stated after the game, “We waited a long time for this moment; I’m just happy that we could take the final step at home because the fans deserve it.” His words echoed the sentiments of many as they reflected on years of hardship.
Edin Džeko’s return to Schalke earlier in January has also played a pivotal role in revitalizing the squad. Since joining, he has contributed six goals in nine league appearances, showcasing his experience and skill on the pitch. His presence has been invaluable during this critical phase of the season.
As Schalke prepares for their next challenges in the Bundesliga, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the club. Timo Becker emphasized that “nothing is more important than bringing this club back to where it belongs,” encapsulating the aspirations shared by players and fans alike.
The road ahead may present new challenges, but for now, Schalke can revel in their achievement—returning to Germany’s top flight where they believe they truly belong.