‘Already game-changer’ – Signing from Sunderland celebrated

Adil Aouchiche ended his Sunderland spell permanently by leaving the Stadium of Light to join Schalke on winter deadline day.

Sunderland had signed the attacking midfielder from FC Lorient in 2023 and he failed to deliver. To put it in context, he managed two goals and four assists from 38 matches for the Black Cats.

The Premier League side allowed him to go out on loan to Portsmouth in January 2025 before sanctioning a season-long loan move to Aberdeen in July.

Régis Le Bris’ side cut short his loan stay in Scotland in order to sell him to Schalke earlier this month.

Aouchiche shining after Sunderland exit

Edin Džeko also joined Schalke in the last window and Monday’s edition of Bild cover his immediate impact.

Džeko has four goals and three assists from five matches for the second division German club. This includes a goal and assist in their 5-3 win over Magdeburg at the weekend.

Aouchiche has also impressed since arriving from Sunderland as he has three assists from three matches. He assisted Džeko’s goal in Schalke’s latest win.

The 39-year-old has also improved the likes of Kenan Karaman [two goals] finally seems to have found his form, and Sunderland import Adil Aouchiche. The latter has settled in quickly.

Max Lüftl key for Aouchiche’s arrival

WAZ report Schalke rushed to sign the Frenchman on deadline day and their director, Max Lüftl, was key. He laid the groundwork for this operation, which allowed his side to sign the player for free.

It’s claimed there were celebrations with the club’s offices after securing his services. The attacker has indicated he has the freedom to showcase his qualities at Schalke.

“That’s just how I am. Here I can play my game – with this approach and this coach. He gives me the chance to be the best version of myself. If I can help the team with my skills and qualities, that’s great,” he told WAZ.

According to the newspaper, the signing from Sunderland is ‘already a game-changer’ for Schalke. He points out the reasons for that as the ex-Black Cats man is now enjoying life in Germany.

“Everyone at the club welcomed me immediately and made me feel at ease. That’s also why it feels so good on the pitch. I’ve got good momentum and I’m enjoying the moment,” Aouchiche explained.

“Schalke has already become my club too – I feel it and I’m very happy to be here.”