Squad planner Max Lüftl wants to place even greater emphasis on discovering and developing Schalke 04's own talents.

Lüftl told the WAZ that they are currently focusing heavily on this topic and want to strengthen the foundational and development areas starting from the U9 level. He noted that they need more manpower and have already made this decision consciously.

Lüftl emphasized that they must work properly in the younger age groups from the start. He pointed out that those who eventually make it to the top are often the players who came to Schalke very early—previously, for example, Julian Draxler and Benedikt Höwedes, and currently Vitalie Becker, Mertcan Ayhan, and Luca Vozar. He described their emotions when signing their professional contracts as extraordinary.

The 32-year-old transfer chief countered concerns that it would be difficult to scout U9 players. He explained that he would turn the perspective around: it is much better to bind a good U9, U10, or U11 player who has significant development potential and time, who then becomes emotionally invested and identifies with the club. He stated that this is where they are placing their focus.

Schalke 04 has "made significant changes"

The native of Passau joined Schalke at the beginning of 2026. Previously, the Bundesliga promoted side had parted ways with former squad planner Ben Manga.

Since then, the scouting department of the Royal Blues has been completely restructured. Schalke is taking entirely new paths.

Lüftl described that they have indeed made significant changes. He explained that the focus has shifted more toward video and data scouting because they have StatsLibuda as an excellent resource that they want to utilize fully. He noted that live observation in the stadium remains important. He also mentioned that they have merged Knappenschmiede and license scouting. He emphasized that the smooth transition is important.