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After just six days in office, Christian Gross has to deliver Schalke for the first time against Hertha on Saturday (6.30pm). And something like that. One more loss for the Royal Blues and Tasmania Berlin’s negative record is just a game away. Another loss of points would make it even more difficult to find the 16th place in descent, which has yet to be reached. A cold start in the capital would be simply fatal.
“It can only be achieved together”
But how does the Zurich-Höngg want to avoid another setback? Also, Gross sometimes trusts the attitude of the players. Before the game in Berlin, he said: “You have to feel that I want to bring out the best in you and that we can only do it together.” A fundamental approach. This feeling of togetherness – you looked at Schalke in vain last year.
Zurich tries to pick up its players with direct and open speeches, as well as individual conversations in English and French. “They are most comfortable when you speak to them in their mother tongue,” says Gross. Will this lead to the desired trust between coach and players? In any case, Gross says: “I feel mutual respect.”
“I’m not asking for 120 percent”
Respect is one thing. Ultimately, though, the irrepressible will to get out of this mess must burn under the fingernails of the entire team. And for that I need everyone. Each individual must be able to access one hundred percent. I’m not asking for 120 percent, that’s just not possible. “
Gross sees another key to success in not looking back. “It doesn’t make sense if we keep talking about the past.” Above all, the 29 games in a row without victories are planned. Gross’s predecessor failed to get these negative stats out of the team’s mind. You can’t eliminate it, but you can steer focus in the right direction. «For me the course is clear and it is only positive forward. The future is ahead of us, “says Gross, asking,” Let’s start the new year on a positive note. “
“The team wins again”
But in the end it is the games that decide if it is successful. And these must be earned. Gross is sure that it will work: “I am convinced that the team will return to victory.” He is confident that he will be able to stay in the league. This strong belief, too, appears to be central to achieving the Gelsenkirchen miracle.
Does this already start on Saturday? Gross has to do without returning Sead Kolasinac (27) against Hertha due to the characteristics of the transfer this winter. After all, Zürcher have another trick up their sleeve against Hoffenheim next week.
