“Many people have told me ‘you are ill’”

The Bosnian striker explained that people doubted whether the move to join Schalke is the right one for his career – Džeko feels it definitely is.

After it was officially confirmed that Edin Džeko has joined FC Schalke 04 today, the Bosnian striker revealed he had his fair share of critics telling him he made the wrong move. 

“Many people have told me ‘you are ill’. But I don’t see it that way; I’m 100-percent committed to Schalke. Playing here is something special.

“From my time at Wolfsburg, I know it’s amazing to play here. I don’t see the second division; I only see Schalke. This fantastic stadium, the fans who are always behind you.

“I’m really looking forward to the coming months. I’m 39, but what counts is what happens on the pitch. I’ve always shown that in my career.

“I don’t need time. I’ve seen a lot in my career. I know all about style and pressing. It’s not how much you run that matters, but how you run,” he explained.

The Bosnian also revealed that he needed little convincing to join the Gelsenkirchen side: “To be honest, I was the one who sought contact first,” Džeko smiled. 

The veteran marksman could make his first appearance for the Royal Blues this Saturday at 13:30 CET when they host 1.FC Kaiserslautern at the Veltins Arena.