Defense
Things might start getting a bit dicey here, since FC Schalke are dealing with Stambouli’s injury. The Frenchman has been huge for Die Knappen and in his place, they will have to turn to either Ozan Kabak of Mattija Nastasic.
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Wagner spoke after Kabak’s debut against Arminia and commented that more development was still needed, so my money is on Nastasic getting the start here next to Salif Sane. Nastasic can hold his own next to Stambouli, he just hasn’t had his chances yet this year. But given all that’s happened, I would expect to see him start here.
As far as fullbacks, Jonjoe Kenny will retain his spot on the team due partly to the fact that he’s earned it and party to the fact that there’s no one else. Still, it’s nice to be able to count on him to play his part over there.
Leftback is a bit muddy as well, since Bastian Oczipka has been a bit slow lately, as well as having to play so often, but Juan Miranda is in a similar situation as Kabak. Wagner recently brought attention to how much development was still needed, so I wouldn’t think Miranda gets the start in this one. Stick with Oczikpa.
On to the midfield.