Schalke sporting director Christian Heidel steps down | OneFootball

Schalke 04 have confirmed that sporting director Christian Heidel will terminate his contract following the club’s poor Bundesliga form.

Heidel will step down from his position at the Veltins Arena by this summer at the latest.

Explaining his decision via the club’s official website, the 55-year-old said: “In the past three years, we finished runner-up in the Bundesliga, were always at least the in quarter-finals in the DFB Pokal and Europa League and celebrated qualification for the last sixteen in the Champions League.

“In the Bundesliga, we are lagging behind our expectations for a variety of reasons. Even if a lot has happened against us during this season, I naturally have the overall responsibility for this. In addition, the work on Schalke with my colleagues on the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board is characterised by mutual trust. In peace, we have developed many things together. This tranquility is currently not guaranteed

“I have always acted consistently in my life. That’s why I informed Supervisory Board Chairman Clemens Tönnies of my firm decision last Monday. I hope that in the club we can now focus on the future. Schalke 04 has grown very dear to me in the past three years. My friendship with Clemens Tönnies will certainly outlast my commitment to this great club. Until a successor is found, of course I will continue to be available with help and advice.

Domenico Tedesco’s side were beaten 3-0 away at Heidel’s former club Mainz on Saturday, a result which leaves them 14th in the Bundesliga.

Clemens Tönnies, Chairman of the club’s Supervisory Board added: “I regret this step, which certainly did not come easy to Christian Heidel. Of course, we will work together confidently and responsibly until the transaction is handed over

“His decision surprised us. We will make and introduce the succession plan in due course. This will happen quickly, but not hastily. We sincerely thank Christian Heidel for the work done.”