Schalke star Cissé: Last chance in professional football despite diabetes!

Schalke star Cissé: Last chance in professional football despite diabetes!

FC Schalke 04 is facing an exciting time for its 24-year-old central defender Ibrahima Cissé. After a difficult period full of injuries, criticism and the challenge of dealing with diabetes, he now has an unexpected but much-needed opportunity to prove himself in the professional squad. The new head coach Miron Muslic has made it clear that Cissé will not only remain part of the team, but will also play an active role. This decision comes at a time when the defensive personnel situation is tense, with the injured Tomas Kalas and the pending transfer of Nikola Katic creating additional uncertainty.

With his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, this opportunity for Cissé is more than just an attempt to assert himself; it could be crucial for his future at Schalke. Muslic shows trust in the defender and expects him to be able to compete in competitive sports despite his health challenges. Cissé spent the second half of last season with the U23s while struggling to establish himself in the professional squad. Now the time has come for something - the chance to convince his critics.

Dealing with diabetes in professional sports

For Cissé, the challenge of living with diabetes is not just a personal one. Many athletes, such as tennis professional Alexander Zverev or hockey player Timur Oruz, have successfully proven that diabetes and professional sports can be compatible. But switching to the correct insulin dosage and a conscious diet are essential. According to experts, the right attitude towards diabetes can significantly alleviate the physical challenges. Zverev is a positive example that shows that careers in competitive sports are possible despite this illness, as demonstrated by numerous other athletes in various disciplines.

The German Diabetes Society (DDG) and diabetesDE – German Diabetes Aid offer valuable information and support for athletes with diabetes. In an environment that continues to be prejudiced against athletes with diabetes, it is becoming increasingly clear that modern technologies and scientific knowledge can have a positive impact on the ability to participate in sports. With the necessary professional support, athletes like Cissé have the opportunity to achieve their sporting goals despite health hurdles.

The opportunity for the future

For Ibrahima Cissé, the current path is not just a last chance to assert himself as a professional footballer. It is a learning process where he can grow not only as an athlete but also as a person. The feedback from coaches and teammates, the opportunity for further development and the suggestions from his personal environment will be crucial. He must make both mental and physical efforts to achieve his goals.

This trip could be the key to a promising career for Cissé, whose future is hanging in the balance. The support from Muslic and the opportunity to take the next step into the first team open up positive prospects. It remains to be seen how the situation develops, but for Cissé this could be the turning point in his career.