Former Liverpool and Bayern Munich forward Xherdan Shaqiri has announced his retirement from international football following the completion of the Euro 2024 campaign. Shaqiri brings down the curtains on a 14-year career with the Switzerland national team as he was part of the squad for the tournament in Germany. Switzerland had a fine run in the tournament as they made it to the quarterfinals and knocked out Italy from the competition.
Shaqiri had scored during the tournament in the group stage against Scotland to as the Swiss ultimately fell to finalists England in the quarterfinals. Shaqiri penned an emotional message to the fans and said he was calling time on his international career. The forward said it was time for him to say goodbye to the national team and thanked everyone.
“Seven tournaments, many goals, 14 years with the Swiss national team and unforgettable moments. It’s time to say goodbye to the national team. Great memories remain and I say to you all: THANK YOU!” said Shaqiri.
Shaqiri’s international career
Shaqiri made his debut for Switzerland in 2010 and was surprise addition to the World Cup squad that year as he gained a lot of fame for his quick pace on the wings. Shaqiri would then be a part of the Switzerland team that went to the 2014, 2018 and 2022 editions of the World Cup as the Swiss side has slowly climbed up the ranks in world football.
The 2024 Euro was his third one for Switzerland and proved to be his last. The 32-year-old made a total of 125 appearances for the national team during his 14-year career and scored a total of 32 goals for them. Shaqiri is currently plying his trade in the MLS with Chicago Fire, where he has been playing since the 2022 season.
Source Agencies
