FC Schalke 04 faces FC Gütersloh on Saturday, July 11, at NRG24 Stadium (Heidewald) for their first pre‑season test. Kick‑off is set for 14:00, and about 5,000 spectators, including many Schalke supporters, are expected.

Why is the test match important for Schalke?

The recent promotion to the Bundesliga has energized the Kings, but the preparation must now guarantee top‑flight quality. Coach Miron Muslic will use the game to assess the integration of summer signings Junior Adamu and Satoshi Tanaka and to solidify the partnership with goalkeeper Loris Karius. For fans it offers a glimpse of the upcoming Bundesliga campaign, while players get a chance to shine before a home crowd.

Which stars will be on the field?

Alongside Muslic’s coaching staff, captain Kenan Karaman, midfield engine Soufiane El‑Faouzi and goalkeeper Loris Karius are key figures. New arrivals Junior Adamu (from SC Freiburg, most recently on loan at Celtic Glasgow) and Satoshi Tanaka (from Fortuna Düsseldorf) will train with the first team for the first time. Former Gütersloh youth players Niklas Barthel, Erik Lanfer and Niklas Frese are also in the squad and eager for the showdown.

What do the coaches say?

FC Gütersloh co‑coach André Kording stresses his "great respect for Miron Muslic’s work" and views the match as a learning opportunity for his side. Muslic aims to use the intensity of a Bundesliga opponent to test tactical nuances. Both coaches expect an open game that will give each team valuable insights.

How does Schalke’s current record look?

Currently FC Schalke 04 sits 1st in the 2. Bundesliga with 70 points, 21 wins, 7 draws and 6 losses from 34 games, recent form WLWWW. The side has scored 50 goals, conceded 31 (+19 goal difference) and leads the table by 8 points over SV Elversberg. Their last result was a 1‑0 victory over Eintracht Braunschweig on May 17, 2026.

How can fans watch?

The test match will be streamed live on FC Gütersloh’s website. Stadium attendees will also get a rare chance to see the players up close – an event that thrills the local football community. Those who miss the live action can later catch the highlights on both clubs’ social‑media channels.