TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Carlo Ancelotti says he will not change the "identity" of his Real Madrid side, despite the poor form of his strikers, BBC Sport reported.
Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale have struggled of late, with Real having failed to score from open play in their last two games.
World record signing Bale is without a goal in his last eight matches, but received the support of his manager.
"They have scored less in the last games but I think that we have to help the strikers," Ancelotti said.
"We won't change our identity because that is how we feel most comfortable," the Italian added. "Without doubt I have confidence in them. There has been a general dip from the team, not just them.
"I would have to drop Karim because he hasn't scored in a few games. I would have to drop Cristiano. I don't think Bale is happy with how he is playing but he understands that he has to improve."
Bale's former Tottenham teammate Luka Modric returns to the Real squad for the first time since suffering a torn thigh muscle in November, with the Spanish club leading 2-0 on aggregate from the first leg in Gelsenkirchen.
Schalke, managed by Roberto Di Matteo, who won the Champions League as Chelsea boss in 2012, are fifth in the Bundesliga following their 3-1 victory over Hoffenheim on Saturday, and midfielder Leon Goretzka could make his first start since recovering from a muscle injury.
BBC SPORT
