A 65-year-old man was tragically found dead inside the toilets of Schalke’s Veltins Arena.

The shocking discovery was made by a cleaner during routine checks on Thursday. Police rushed to the scene and quickly cordoned off the toilets to conduct their investigation.

The man was attending an event at the home of the Bundesliga 2 leaders on Wednesday. German publication Bild report that investigators believe the man suffered a medical episode before collapsing.

While there is no suggestion that any crime was committed, German police say it is unknown why nobody realised the man had gone missing until he was found the following day.

The deceased was reported to be a local man from Gelsenkirchen.

A club statement released to Bild said: ‘FC Schalke 04 reacted with great dismay on Thursday to the news that a deceased person was found in a restroom at the VELTINS-Arena. Schalke 04 expresses its deepest condolences to the bereaved.

A stadium cleaner at the Veltins Arena made the shocking discovery on Thursday

‘The investigation into the circumstances of his death is ongoing, and the club refers inquiries to the responsible police authority.

‘At this time, Schalke 04 will therefore not release any further information. The club is supporting the relevant authorities in their investigation with all available means.’

Schalke’s last home game was on Sunday April 19 – where they beat Preussen Munster 4-1 – and they travel to Paderborn for a title showdown today.