Veteran Bosnia and Herzegovina striker Edin Dzeko has signed a one-year contract extension with Schalke after playing a key role in the club’s return to the Bundesliga.
Schalke announced the deal on Monday, ensuring the 40-year-old will remain with the club for the 2026/27 top-flight campaign.
Dzeko joined Schalke on a free transfer in January and quickly became an influential figure as the club secured promotion after three seasons in Germany’s second division.
The experienced forward scored six goals in 11 Bundesliga 2 appearances, helping Schalke finish the season strongly and earn an immediate return to the top flight.
Reacting to the new deal, Dzeko described the promotion as one of the most memorable achievements of his career.
“Winning promotion to the Bundesliga ranks among the highlights of my career. It was unbelievable,” he said in a statement.
The former Manchester City striker said he remained motivated to compete at the highest level despite turning 40.
“Football has made me happy and driven me throughout my life. I am still hungry, and I want to help our team in the Bundesliga too,” Dzeko added.
The contract extension means Dzeko could make his first Bundesliga appearance since leaving Wolfsburg for Manchester City in 2011 when Schalke begin their league campaign away to Augsburg on August 30.
Dzeko first made his name in Germany with Wolfsburg, where he helped the club win the Bundesliga title before moving to the Premier League.
During a successful spell at Manchester City, he won multiple domestic trophies before continuing his career in Italy with Roma and Inter Milan.
He later moved to Turkish side Fenerbahce before returning to Germany with Schalke earlier this year.
The veteran striker also recently captained Bosnia and Herzegovina at the FIFA World Cup, further underlining his longevity at the highest level of international football.
Schalke will hope Dzeko’s experience and goals can help the club re-establish itself in the Bundesliga following its return to the German top flight.