Ex-Sunderland midfielder Adil Aouchiche looks to be thriving over in Germany.
Former Sunderland midfielder Adil Aouchiche has been hailed as a “game-changer” for new club FC Schalke after completing a January deadline day switch from Wearside to Germany.
The Frenchman spent the first half of the season out on loan in Scotland with Aberdeen, but had his temporary stint cut short to ensure that he could seal a permanent move to the continent, and has seemingly made a positive start to the newest chapter of his career.
Aouchiche has registered three assists in his first three appearances for Schalke, and a fresh update from German outlet WAZ has shed further light on both the club’s initial desire to sign him, and the impact that he has made since.
What has been said about Adil Aouchiche following Sunderland exit?
After registering just six goals involvements across 38 first team appearances during his time with Sunderland, Aouchiche’s stint on Wearside could justifiably be deemed quite underwhelming, but WAZ state that he is “already a game-changer” for Schalke.
And the German side were reportedly sure that they had landed the right man as soon as his arrival was confirmed, with claims that there were celebrations in the club’s offices once the transfer went through.
As for Aouchiche himself, he has expressed his contentment with his new environment, and the freedom it has afforded him to play his best football, telling WAZ: “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.
“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. Schalke has already become my club too – I feel it and I’m very happy to be here.”
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What else has Adil Aouchiche said about his transfer to FC Schalke from Sunderland?
Aouchiche’s latest comments echo the sentiments he outlined in his first interview as a Schalke player, telling the club’s official website, he said: “When the call came, I was really pleased and excited about the chance to join Schalke. We’ve got big plans, and I want to play my part in making sure we have a successful second half of the season. I want to show that in every training session.”
Explaining the decision to sign Aouchiche, Schalke’s director of professional football, Youri Mulder, said: “Adil fits our playing philosophy perfectly with his intensity and game intelligence. As a box-to-box player, he’ll be an exciting option for us, with his physicality, high work rate and sharp acceleration over the first few yards. Adil reads the game well, is constantly available for the ball and isn’t afraid to play a risky pass. We’re really pleased to have him on board.”
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