Swiss midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a illustrious career that spanned 14 years and 125 caps.
The 32-year-old, who currently plays for Chicago Fire in the US, is Switzerland’s second most-capped player behind Granit Xhaka.
Shaqiri made his international debut in 2010 at the age of 18 and went on to represent Switzerland at four World Cups and three European Championships. His last game for the national team was the Euro 2024 quarter-final against England, where he scored in the penalty shoot-out.
In a social media post, Shaqiri bid farewell to the national team, saying: “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!”
Shaqiri retires as Switzerland’s fourth top goalscorer with 32 goals, behind Alexander Frei, Kubilay Turkyilmaz, and Max Abegglen. His decision comes on the heels of Germany’s Thomas Mueller, who also announced his retirement from international football earlier on Monday.
