David Wagner was key to Ozan Kabak's decision to join Schalke 04
New Schalke 04 signing Ozan Kabak is impressed with the mentality of his coach, David Wagner.
Ozan Kabak has revealed Schalke 04 coach David Wagner was a decisive factor behind his decision to come to Veltins-Arena from VfB Stuttgart.
Kabak was chased by a number of clubs, but Schalke 04 ultimately won the race for his signature, apparently partly thanks to the huge impression Wagner made on the 19-year-old when they met for the first time.
"I met David Wagner in person earlier this summer. I was impressed by his mentality as a coach and human being," Kabak said in an interview with Kicker.
'The Royal Blues' paid €15 million to land Kabak, and Wagner is confident the centre-back is worth the transfer fee.
"He's certainly one of the most promising defenders at his age in Europe. For Schalke 04, it's certainly a big investment, but I believe there is a lot of value in this player," the Schalke coach said.
Kabak made 17 appearances for Stuttgart after joining the Swabian club from Galatasaray for €11 million in January.