A few hours after Xherdan Shaqiri announced his departure from the Swiss national team, the Swiss Federation held a press conference regarding the extension of the contract with the coach Murat Yakin. But the main topic at the conference was Shaqiri’s retirement.
Yakini gave Shaqiri some space at Euro 2024 and this could be the reason for his immediate withdrawal.
“We were all notified at the same time. I regret this step, we had a good working relationship. It is his decision. We have always said that the situation for deserving players after the tournament is difficult. We respect his decision. We are sorry to say goodbye to such a brilliant player, a record holder. A big thank you from me”, said Yakin.
According to him, it was important for Shaqiri to accept his role.
“He did this and made his contribution. We both agreed that the pace in the US is not the same as in Europe. He supported the young guys. Shaqiri has behaved professionally. I wish him all the best in the future”, added the Switzerland coach.
The leaders of the Swiss federation have announced a farewell match for Shaqiri.
“We will definitely organize something. He was one of the greatest Swiss players, one of the most popular. 125 games, many goals, seven tournaments – we will find a way for the fans to remember Shaqiri and say thank you”, said Pierluigi Tami, director of the Swiss national team.
