GK Alexander Nubel
Alexander Nubel is a lock to start every week as a star goalkeeper and the team’s captain. He’s made some sumptuous saves this season, and he’ll certainly be called into action against the likes of Kevin Volland, Kai Havertz, and Karim Bellarabi on Saturday.
LB Bastian Oczipka
Bastian Oczipka has also been excellent this season, but he could be tested like never before by Leon Bailey, who has shown signs of a return to form. Bailey was fabulous against Bayern last week and will threaten to score some more goals on Matchday 14.
CB Ozan Kabak
Since becoming Schalke’s starter after injuries to Salif Sane and Benjamin Stambouli, Ozan Kabak has looked like the best center back in the Bundesliga. That may sound hyperbolic, but Kabak hasn’t looked like your average 19-year-old. He is indeed as good as advertised, and his strength and reading of the game will be tested by both Kevin Volland and Kai Havertz in this game.
CB Matija Nastasic
Matija Nastasic hasn’t shown any real signs of rust since returning from an Achilles’ injury, even making a goal-saving tackle – as Kabak did – against Union last week. He and Kabak are locks to start every week and have formed a top center back pairing that just might be on par with the tandem of Sane and Stambouli.
RB Jonjoe Kenny
Schalke will need Jonjoe Kenny to step up his performances both defensively and offensively. He’s looked good, but something has been missing in recent weeks. Karim Bellarabi has returned to being one of the best all-round wingers in the Bundesliga, routinely embarrassing fullbacks with his veteran know-how and pace. Bellarabi is a real threat to get on the score sheet in this one.