The Former Head of the European Parliament Martin Schulz, who is the main competitor of Angela Merkel in the upcoming parliamentary elections, can deprive her from her authorities in the following 5 ways, reports the Politico.

One of the ways is to get the Social Democratic Party into a fighting mood. Secondly, Schulze might unite all the left wing, creating a coalition with the Green and the Left. It will increase the chances of the SPD against conservatives.

Third, Schulze could avoid migration issues during the election campaign. His party's electorate is divided into 2 parts: those who are against the refugees and those who defend the policy of Merkel. If it will not be possible to avoid this issue, referring to “European solutions that are in the works” will be for his benefits. 

Fourth, Schultz should direct his efforts at gaining the trust of the ordinary Germans, who represent the working class, and who are at risk of being agitated by the AfD’s populist message. Schultz, over the past few months, made it clear that his political strategy is derived from the interests of the ordinary people.

Finally, Schulz can use his strengths, in particular leveraging his position as Germany’s most influential man in Brussels.