2. He has yet to start a single match
I find this particular fact/stat incredible, and not in a good way. Kutucu broke onto the scene last year, and even though he only made three starts last season compared to ten substitute appearances, that’s a much higher ratio to his zero starts to thirteen substitute appearances this year.
More from Release The Knappen
- Schalke 04: Arkadiusz Milik would take everything, but he’s worth it
- Schalke 04: Ozan Kabak makes Jean-Claire Todibo pass quietly
- Schalke 04: Omar Mascarell the only boost between now and then
- Schalke 04: David Wagner just has to make it to the end of the season
- Schalke 04: At least we still have Weston McKennie
There has been a lot of striker turnover at the Veltins this year. Mark Uth and Guido Burgstaller were the guys, but without any goals to their names, Uth was sent out on loan and Burgstaller fell to the bench. Benito Raman took over, and he’s been doing tremendous, but he was pushed to the wings to accommodate Michael Gregoritsch, who has spectacularly failed since his debut against Monchengladbach.
All the while, Kutucu has not found a single opening to get into the starting XI. It’s to the point now where I honestly wonder if David Wagner is aware of this.
On the bright side, after the Paderborn match, I can’t imagine much more of a telling indication that he needs to be starting. Pair him with Raman up top? That’s blazing saddles right there. We will ruin opposing defenses with speed and precision.
Lastly, let’s talk about a not-so-surprising No. 1 that needs to be pointed out.