The six-time ÖFB team player made 15 appearances for Schalke after moving from LASK to the “Knappen” last year, but did not get a chance recently. Ranftl said in an Austria broadcast that the change was a “great step for me”. He now wants to find his way back to his old strengths.
Sports director Manuel Ortlechner described the right winger as a “leader who brings an incredible mentality to the pitch and can act as a role model for our boys. He can occupy several positions on the right-hand side, is extremely strong on the run and is definitely an absolute asset for our tasks in the Autumn.” Ranftl has a “highly professional approach and is also a good character off the pitch,” said Ortlechner.
Ranftl could stay with Austria beyond the coming season. As Schalke reported, the “Violets” have a purchase option on the 30-year-old.
Source: Nachrichten