DM Omar Mascarell
While Omar Mascarell has been as solid as ever, the Schalke star midfielder will have to be a star on Matchday 14 against the likes of Kerem Demirbay and Charles Aranguiz. Those two midfielders are more than capable of controlling a game on their own, while Havertz will be a real thorn in Mascarell’s side. He’ll be asked to do a lot in this game, but Mascarell has consistently shown that he’s up to whatever task is put on his plate.
DM Weston McKennie
The high-energy midfielder will be a key to victory on Saturday and is expected to start again. Weston McKennie will need to be at his best defensively against a Bayer side that loves to attack under Peter Bosz, but their attack-minded ways could also allow McKennie to remind fans how good he can be in the attack.
AM Daniel Caligiuri
Daniel Caligiuri will provide width and teasing delivers for the Schalke forwards, in addition to his usual gritty work on defense. He can help Oczipka deal with the threat of Bailey, and all he needs is one piece to change the complexion of the game. Refer to his performance against Augsburg as an example of this.
AM Suat Serdar
Suat Serdar will play a more attacking role against Bayer Leverkusen, as he’s really come around after recently returning from an injury. The Germany international brings real quality in the attacking third due to his technique and dribbling skills, and he showed off his technical ability with his cool finish for the winner on Matchday 13 against Union.