Story byAssociated PressThu, January 22, 2026 at 2:46 PM UTC·1 min readGELSENKIRCHEN, Germany (AP) — Edin Džeko has returned to Germany where he hopes to play more to help Bosnia earn a World Cup ticket. Second-division Schalke signed the veteran forward from Italian side Fiorentina to boost its prospect of promotion on Thursday. Džeko will be 40 years old in March. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“We’re signing a striker who has played at the highest level in his career. Our team will benefit from Edin’s experience as a leader as well as his qualities as a target man and goal-scorer,” Schalke sporting director Youri Mulder said. Džeko will hope to showcase his ability to earn a World Cup call up if Bosnia qualifies.