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Midfield is arguably the most vital aspect of the game of football. Though not always in the thick of actions, midfielders can decide the outcome of the game with their creativity and work rate. In fact, boasting a good midfield is often a key to success for any team in the world.
Schalke seemed to have found their perfect midfield combination in the Bundesliga this season.
Under the tutelage of Domenico Tedesco, the Royal Blues have found real success, thanks to their industrious midfield. But how did the 32-year-old manage to turn Schalke into a midfield powerhouse in such short span of time?
Without further ado, let's take a look at five reasons why Schalke have the best midfield in the Bundesliga right now.
#5 The influence of Domenico Tedesco
Above anything else, Domenico Tedesco had the most influence on Schalke's success story this season.
Instead of splashing the cash on the transfer market, the former Aue boss chose to work with the initial crop of players he had at his disposal at the start of the season. The 32-year-old expertly analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of his players in order to minimize the flaws within the team.
It's safe to assume that Tedesco has been one of the best coaches in the Bundesliga this season. Without having any real amount of firepower, the young coach has managed to transform a baffled squadron into a unified whole.
His impassioned speeches and motivational skills have empowered the Schalke midfield to become a Bundesliga powerhouse once again.
#4 Relentless support from fullbacks
Tedesco's pendulating three at the back formation has also helped the Schalke midfield to flourish this season.
The oscillating back-three formation often transforms into a five-man back-line on a defensive stance whilst obtaining support from the wing-backs in order to gain an offensive advantage in the final third.
As you would expect from any three at the back systems, the wingbacks play a vital role in Schalke's overall game plan. Not only do they cover the entire flank with tireless running, but also support the midfielders if necessary.
For instance, Schalke's offensive pressing scheme often disintegrates the positioning of the players, especially the midfielders. Therefore, if any Schalke midfielder moves forward to support the inward pressing from the attackers, either of Bastian Oczipka or Daniel Caligiuri moves in to recover that space, thus maintaining the overall shape of the midfield.
#3 Youthful exuberance
The infusion of youth has been one of the most important reasons behind Schalke's success story this season.
Famously known for their world famous youth academy, Die Knappenschmiede, Schalke have been brewing young and exciting youth talents for quite some time now. This season has been no exception either as the Royal Blues boast one of the most promising youth-based teams in the Bundesliga.
While regular first-team midfielders such as Leon Goretzka(22), Nabil Bentaleb(23), Am and Max Meyer(23) are all aged 23 or below, the presence of a string of youth academy players has added much-needed depth in midfield.
American youngster Weston McKennie has been one of those young players making a mark in the German top flight this season. The 19-year-old native from Texas has already made 12 appearances in all competition. His impressive work rate coupled with incredible tenacity is perfectly suited for the tactical ideology of Domenico Tedesco.
#2 Squad coherence
Perhaps the most important factor any team who relies on work ethic and togetherness, the cohesion is often the foundation for a great team. As for Schalke, the Ruhr giants seemed to have found the right amount of togetherness in their camp this season.
As mentioned earlier, head coach Tedesco has had a massive influence in forming a unified whole.
Especially in midfield, the players have worked as a collective unit this season, which has, eventually, made them a solidified team overall. Given the rigid pressing scheme of Tedesco, it's very important for the Schalke midfield function as a collective unit and so far, the whole team has responded very well.
#1 The talent of Leon Goretzka
By far the most gifted midfielder in the Schalke squadron, the presence of Leon Goretzka has been imperative.
Following a successful campaign where he helped his nation win the FIFA Confederations Cup this summer, Goretzka has evolved as one of the best young midfielders in Europe this season.
Despite his young age, Goretzka's level of tactical understanding and maturity is well beyond the years. Gifted with sensational ball-playing qualities as well as a physique that often intimidates opposing midfielders, the 22-year-old has emerged as the midfield general for Die Konigsblauen this season.
However, Goretzka's future in Schalke could be in jeopardy as the player is seemingly reluctant to extend his contract. His current contract with the club at the end of this season, meaning he could be available for a free transfer next summer.
The German International has already attracted a lot of transfer interest from several top European clubs, including Barcelona and Manchester City. It will be interesting to see how his transfer saga evolves in the upcoming months.
