“We are delighted that we have been able to complete the signing. We had to strengthen our attacking options following Sebastian Polter’s injury and in signing Michael we have done just that. We have acquired a big, physical and dynamic centre forward who will fill the hole in the attacking line,” explained Peter Knäbel.
Head coach Thomas Reis is also delighted with the signing: “Michael has a good presence on the pitch and he gets into dangerous positions with his clever movement. He is horrible for any defender to play against and thats exactly what I want from the entire team. I am pleased that we have been able to acquire such an experienced player who will be able to help us out straight away.”
The 28-year-old is also keen to get underway with the team: “I am pleased to be here at Schalke and to be able to get on the training pitch with the team today. I will do everything to integrate with the team as quickly as possible, so that together we can pick up points.”
The Swiss-born attacker made the step-up to senior football at Young Boys and also played for every Switzerland youth team from the U-15s until the U-21s. Since then, he has played in Belgium, France, Germany and Turkey, making over 400 appearances in total. In the last three seasons, he has made 74 appearances in the Belgian top division, scoring 41 goals and picking up seven assists. The attacker has scored seven goals in 14 games for Royal Antwerp this season.