David Wagner on Ozan Kabak's bench role: 'He's facing competition at a very high level'
It seems Ozan Kabak will have to settle for a place on the bench at Schalke 04 until further notice.
Schalke 04 coach David Wagner has hinted that he will keep Ozan Kabak on the bench for the time being.
"He's fully up to speed and would be ready at any time. But he's facing competition at a very high level," Wagner told Der Westen.
The 19-year-old has made just two substitute appearances for Schalke since his €15 million move from VfB Stuttgart, with Salif Sané and Benjamin Stambouli currently being Wagner's preferred duo in central defence.
But even though Kabak hasn't played much so far, Wagner insists he isn't doubting his potential.
"He's certainly one of the most talented defenders of his age in Europe," the Schalke coach said.
Schalke sit sixth in the Bundesliga table ahead of their away game against Hoffenheim on Sunday.