Schalke relegated after 30 years in the Bundesliga

BERLIN: Bottom side Schalke 04 were relegated on Tuesday after 30 consecutive years in the Bundesliga and almost exactly ten years since reaching the Champions League’s semi-finals.

A 1-0 loss at Arminia Bielefeld confirmed a fourth relegation in Schalke’s history after three decades in Germany’s top flight.

Schalke played the last 19 minutes with 10 men after defender Malick Thiaw was sent off for a second yellow card.

Bielefeld captain Fabian Klos scored the winner early in the second-half to condemn Schalke to their first relegation since 1988 before coming back up in 1991/92.

“I don’t feel good and I can imagine how Schalke fans are crying in front of the TV right now,” said tearful Schalke team manager Gerald Asamoah.

“We knew what was coming, but when you realise that it’s come to this, it’s tough.

“We’re all disappointed and each of us must question ourselves,” added the former Germany striker. - AFP