Schalke 04 carry one of German football’s deepest working-class traditions and a passionate support. These are the ten greatest to represent Die Knappen.

1. 1

   Ernst Kuzorra

   Schalke 04 · Germany

   A pre-war icon at the heart of the club’s dominant championship teams.

2. 2

   Fritz Szepan

   Schalke 04 · Germany

   A legendary playmaker and captain of the great 1930s side.

3. 3

   Klaus Fischer

   Schalke 04 · Germany

   A prolific striker famed for spectacular bicycle-kick goals.

4. 4

   Raúl

   Schalke 04 · Spain

   A world-class forward whose beloved spell brought glamour and goals to Gelsenkirchen.

5. 5

   Olaf Thon

   Schalke 04 · Germany

   A gifted midfielder and one of the club’s most cherished sons across two spells.

6. 6

   Klaus Fichtel

   Schalke 04 · Germany

   A record appearance-maker and defensive stalwart over an extraordinary career.

7. 7

   Manuel Neuer

   Schalke 04 · Germany

   A homegrown, revolutionary goalkeeper who emerged as one of the world’s best.

8. 8

   Ebbe Sand

   Schalke 04 · Denmark

   A clinical Danish striker and a key figure of the early-2000s side.

9. 9

   Gerald Asamoah

   Schalke 04 · Germany

   A powerful, wholehearted forward and enduring fan favourite.

10. 10

    Benedikt Höwedes

    Schalke 04 · Germany

    A one-club captain and World Cup winner who embodied the club’s spirit.

A LeaguePaper editorial ranking — opinion, offered for argument.