Raul departure saddens Metzelder

Schalke defender Christoph Metzelder did not hide his disappointment at Raul’s decision to leave the club at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old striker announced on Thursday that he will continue his career outside of Europe after rejecting Schalke’s offer to extend his contract.

Metzelder said he believes that the Spaniard’s departure is a heavy blow for the club, but insisted that it will open the door for new players to prove their worth.

“From day one, others have looked at him with great respect in the dressing room,” he told reporters.

“Raul will certainly be part of the club’s history. He will certainly be missed, not only because of his quality, but also his reputation.

“But he will now offer the chance to other players to fill this gap.”

The former Spain international Raul, who joined Schalke in 2010, has scored 20 goals in all competitions this season.