'MVP!' - Loris Karius' wife Diletta Leotta screams from the stands as Liverpool flop finally returns to football after a year out - and keeps a clean sheet!

The 31-year-old shot-stopper signed with Schalke in January, aiming to revive his career in Germany’s second division. His move came after an extended period away from first-team football, having left Newcastle United at the end of last season. Before his Schalke debut, his last competitive game had been for the Magpies in a 4-1 defeat against Arsenal on February 24, 2023.

Despite initially being second-choice behind Justin Heekeren, Karius was finally given his first opportunity to start on Friday night, making his much-anticipated return between the posts against Preussen Munster. He was instrumental in Schalke’s narrow win, producing a series of crucial saves throughout the game. His most impressive moment came in the dying stages when he made a stunning double save to deny efforts from Niko Koulis and David Kinsombi.

Leotta, a well-known Serie A presenter for DAZN, expressed her appreciation for Karius’ heroics by sharing a short clip of him being celebrated by his teammates with the caption "MVP."

@dilettaleotta Instagram

The couple also shared a heartwarming moment after the match, as Karius was spotted waving to his wife in the stands as the two teams lined up before kick-off.

Karius shared a post as well to celebrate his triumphant return, with the caption: "Back doing what I love 🙌🏻 Never give up 👊🏼"

Speaking to Sky Germany after the game, Karius expressed satisfaction with his performance and said, "For a goalkeeper, it's always good if you can distinguish yourself. I tried to give the team security and to defuse what came at the goal. But that's my job, I would be disappointed if I didn't make those saves. That was fine for the debut."

With confidence restored and his first clean sheet secured, Karius will aim to build on this performance as he continues his journey to re-establish himself as a top-level goalkeeper. He will now be hoping to retain his place in Schalke’s starting lineup for their upcoming clash against Hertha Berlin on March 8.