Ex-Everton Goalkeeper Suffers Major Setback at New Team
Loris Karius, who played for Everton between 2020 and 2022, has suffered an injury setback after signing for German Bundesliga 2 side Schalke in January. The goalkeeper made 16 appearances for the Toffees before leaving the club.
Karius’ wife, Diletta Leotta, had previously expressed her desire for him to play in Italy, citing the inconvenience of living in England. She said: “I would be happy if he could come and play in Italy and be close to his family. ‘Goodison Park is very inconvenient because there are no direct flights. Neither about Paris nor about Amsterdam.”
After leaving Everton, Karius signed for Schalke and started four consecutive matches, earning a spot in the Bundesliga 2 Team of the Week for his debut showing. However, he was substituted just before half-time in Schalke’s 3-3 draw at Furth on March 30, having made five saves. The club has now confirmed that Karius has suffered an injury to the ‘structural muscle’ in his left calf, which is set to rule him out for the rest of the season.
Schalke’s director of football, Youri Mulder, said: “We will support Loris as best we can in his recovery along with our medical staff. ‘His injury comes at a frustrating time but his health is the most important thing.”
It remains to be seen whether Karius has played his last game for the club, as his contract only runs until the end of the season. The 31-year-old had previously revealed that he chose not to sign for a team in Saudi Arabia and had talks with an unnamed Italian team that ultimately broke down. While waiting for a new club, Karius spent time with his family and worked as a DJ at several major events.
