Miron Muslic Appointed as New Schalke 04 Head Coach

Schalke 04 have announced Miron Muslic as their new head coach. He has signed a contract until 2027. The 42-year-old joins from Plymouth Argyle after a successful but short time at the club.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Muslic’s appointment was finalized on Friday after talks between Schalke and Plymouth Argyle. Muslic used an exit clause in his contract with Plymouth, and Schalke paid a large fee plus bonuses to bring him in. Muslic helped Plymouth beat Premier League champions Liverpool in the FA Cup this season, though the team did drop to the Championship. Muslic has managed SV Ried in Austria and Cercle Brugge in Belgium before, where he led them to the European Playoff Round. Schalke have had a tough year and had to sack two head coaches, Karel Geraerts and Kees van Wonderen, before Muslic arrived.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS

Schalke had a disappointing season, finishing 14th in the 2. Bundesliga and only five points above the relegation zone. Changing head coaches has stopped them from making progress. Muslic is known for his tactical ability and motivating skills, so appointing him shows Schalke want to rebuild and compete for promotion to the Bundesliga again. Muslic’s FA Cup success and experience managing in Europe show he is a credible choice, even though his resume is unusual for a club like Schalke.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR SCHALKE AND MUSLIC

Muslic’s first challenge will be to stabilize Schalke and prepare for the 2025/26 2. Bundesliga season, which begins in August. Schalke almost got relegated last season, so they need to improve quickly. The club’s early matches in the new season will be key in setting the direction, as they aim to close the 21-point gap to the promotion places. Schalke’s next match will be announced when the new league fixtures are released. Meanwhile, Plymouth must find a new manager and regroup after their drop, hoping for a quick promotion back to the Championship.