Mirko Slomka is being touted as Peter Knäbel’s successor as manager at Schalke. The former S04 coach has now commented on the rumors.

It was only a few days ago that long-serving Bundesliga coach Mirko Slomka declared his coaching career over after spells at Hannover 96, Schalke 04 and Hamburger SV. “I now say quite clearly: my time as a coach is over,” the 56-year-old revealed in an interview with Kicker. “I would like to use the many tools I now have at my disposal at a club at management level.”

Since then, the rumor mill has been buzzing: wouldn’t the 56-year-old be a candidate for FC Schalke? Peter Knäbel will end his time as sports director there after six years on June 30, 2024. As he himself announced, he will not be renewing his expiring contract.

Slomka, who works as a pundit, was asked about the rumors on the Sky show “Dein Fußball-Sonntag”. “I’m still committed to Schalke,” said Slomka. “But there have been no official talks. But Schalke remains a matter close to my heart.” However, Slomka emphasized the word “official” slightly smugly, leaving room for speculation.

Slomka returned to his home club Hannover 96 in 2019 after relegation from the Bundesliga, but had to leave after just twelve match days. Most recently, he completed a degree in sports management at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland. His greatest successes as a soccer coach were finishing runner-up in the 2007 championship with FC Schalke 04 and two Europa League appearances with Hannover 96.

Former Schalke sporting director Horst Heldt is also being touted as Knäbel’s successor. But one step at a time. Matthias Tillmann will take over as the new CEO at the turn of the year. The new club boss will form an impression and then make a decision. Other candidates could then also be considered as sporting director