Departing Meyer makes ´bullying´ claim against Schalke

Max Meyer’s time at Schalke is coming to an ugly end after the young midfielder accused people of “bullying” him and revealed sporting director Christian Heidel is the reason he is leaving.

Meyer had long been linked with a move away from Schalke after he entered the final year of his contract, which he will not be extending.

Heidel confirmed on Thursday that Meyer was “definitely” on his way out, insisting it was an “amicable” agreement.

But club president Clemens Tonnies said two days that later both Meyer and Leon Goretzka – who is leaving for Bayern Munich at the end of the season – are on “the money train”.

Meyer says money has nothing to do with his exit, instead pointing the finger at Heidel.

“I was never concerned about the money, otherwise I would have accepted the second improved offer,” Meyer told Bild.

“That’s why I find it a mess for Clemens Tonnies to say it on TV as if it were all about money. I simply did not want to stay with Schalke and work under Heidel. It’s all about this. Lately, it just feels like bullying to me.

“I did not want to come out and talk. I’ve just had enough of always reading something about myself, but neither Heidel nor Tonnies talked to me.

“Now they can read how the last two years have been for me at Schalke.”

The 22-year-old missed Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Borussia Monchengladbach due to a foot injury, but he insists he was fit to play.

“I had a knock on Wednesday, but told the doctor that evening that I could work out,” he said. “I was not hurt. That’s what I said to the coach on Thursday.

“He said before training I should stay and wait until Monday with the training. I have been available since Thursday.”