Schalke: Coach Rangnick resigns due to exhaustion

In a surprise move FC Schalke 04 coach Ralf Rangnick has resigned from his position as head coach due to health reasons. Rangnick took the unusual step due to an exhaustion syndrome due to which he is currently unable to muster the strength and energy to coach the club.

In a statement the 53 year old Ralf Rangnick said, "After a long and mature consideration I decided that I needed a break. This decision is very hard but my current energy level is not sufficient to be successful and especially to further develop the team."

Only six months ago in March 2011 Rangnick had replaced Felix Magath at Schalke 04 with the clubs management hoping Rangnick would rebuild the team after the turbulent times under Magath. Rangnick went on to win the German Cup and reach the semifinals of the UEFA Champions league last season. At the start of this season things have been going fine and this news will come as a big shock for Schalke.

"His decision deserves respect," said Schalke Director of Sports Horst Heldt. "We also believe that health should be put above any professional targets and challenges."

Schalke 04 have named assistant coach Seppo Eichkorn as the interim coach for Saturday's match against SC Freiburg, while the search for a new coach would likely start after a board meeting this afternoon.

One can only wish Ralf Rangnick a speedy recovery, then 'the professor' is one of the most knowledgeable German coaches of today.