TSG Hoffenheim vs. Schalke 04 preview: Underachievers clash in last game before international break

TSG Hoffenheim are set to host Schalke 04 at the SNP Arena on Sunday in the final fixture of Bundesliga matchday 9. Christian Ilzer's Hoffenheim side return home seeking a rebound following three straight away losses across different competitions, including defeats to Werder Bremen, Holstein Kiel, and Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Miron Muslić's Schalke enter the match hoping to end an abysmal run after earning just one league point since the October international break.

Schalke have struggled offensively, scoring only one goal across their past six competitive matches and suffering a cup exit against Dynamo Dresden. For Hoffenheim, Adam Hložek and Vladimir Coufal could return to the squad, while Alexander Prass is available after serving a domestic suspension. Schalke may welcome back Soufiane El-Faouzi and Robin Gosens, who recently returned to training following head injuries sustained against Köln.