Andre Breitenreiter confirms departure from Schalke 04

Schalke 04 manager Andre Breitenreiter has confirmed his departure from the Bundesliga club after just one year at the helm.

The Royal Blues made the announcement just prior to their 4-1 win over Hoffenheim on the final day of the campaign, a result which secured fifth place in the table and a Europa League berth.

"I had a chat this week with [incoming director of sport] Christian Heidel and he told me honestly and directly that this would be my last game on the Schalke bench," Breitenreiter said at a press conference.

"I have informed the team of this decision also, because I didn't want any messing around. Everybody knows now."

Breitenreiter's deal at Schalke was due to expire at the end of next season.