Schalke BANISH star from squad for breaking club protocol as he releases grovelling apology
SCHALKE have banished Timo Baumgartl to their under-23s for breaking club protocol.
The defender has since released an apology after being fined by the 2. Bundesliga side.
Baumgartl was punished for breaching the club’s code of conduct following their 3-1 loss to St. Pauli on Saturday.
The 27-year-old had a TV interview with Sky after the defeat, in which he criticised the team and manager Thomas Reis.
In response, Schalke have fined Baumgartl and demoted him to their under-23s following a meeting with Reis and sporting director Andre Hechelmann.
The club confirmed on Sunday that he will spend the week training away from the first-team squad.
Baumgartl also issued an apology for his comments in Schalke’s statement.
“What I triggered with my statements was not my intention and should not happen to a player with my experience,” he explained.
“That’s why I asked Thomas Reis and André Hechelmann to apologise and I’m very happy that they accepted it. I know that I am now challenged.”
The former Germany under-21 international only joined Schalke this summer, signing from PSV on a free transfer in July.
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He has since made seven appearances for the club so far this season.
Saturday’s defeat leaves Schalke 15th in the 2. Bundesliga, although they could drop into the relegation play-off spot after Sunday’s matches.