The Schalke “branch” in Braunschweig has been a thorn in the side of the Royal Blues at the end of the season. Here’s what Heiner Backhaus and Mehmet-Can Aydin have to say.

When FC Schalke takes the field against Eintracht Braunschweig, it’s also a reunion of many old acquaintances, as numerous S04 players have moved to Braunschweig in recent years.

And so it’s no surprise that it was two former Schalke players, of all people, who handed the Royal Blues a defeat at the end of the year.

Sidi Sané scored the 2-0 goal, after Mehmet-Can Aydin had opened the scoring against Schalke. After the game, he explained why he didn’t look happy: “The goal was really special for me. But unfortunately, I can’t celebrate against Schalke. I celebrated briefly, then composed myself, then raised my hands. That’s how it should be.”

Out of respect for his former club, for which he played for many years, he celebrated inwardly. It was already the third win in the last four games. Aydin’s takeaway before the winter break: “We know how difficult it was before. We’re enjoying the current situation and trying to carry that into the new year.”

Braunschweig coach Heiner Backhaus also faced his old love, emphasizing that Schalke was a “childhood influence” for him. He was still happy to take the three points, however, and with a hoarse voice he praised his team on “Sky”: “I’m happy for my squad, which has already had some very difficult times this year. We have a very young team. The way we defended is great. The guys will take that with them. All in all, the victory was completely deserved.“

Everyone agreed on that point, including the Schalke players. When asked about his celebration after the 2-0 goal, the coach would only go so far as to admit that he ”needs to exercise more.”

But certainly only after the short vacation that’s coming up. Backhaus: “I’m going to Leipzig with my family for four days, then to Dubai. Usually I go to the Harz Mountains—we’ll see what’s in store for me.”