Xherdan Shaqiri has announced his retirement from international footballer following the conclusion of the 2024 European Championship.
The former Liverpool and Bayern Munich midfielder, 32, who became the only European player to score in the last six major tournaments when he netted in Switzerland’s 1-1 draw with Scotland made the announcement today, July 16.
Shaqiri featured in two of Switzerland’s five tournament matches before they were dumped out of the tournament at the quarter-final stage by England on penalties.
The 32-year-old, who made his national team debut in 2010, ends his international career on 125 caps and 32 goals.
‘Seven tournaments, many goals, 14 years with the Swiss national team, and unforgettable moments.’ He wrote in a post on X on Monday.
‘It’s time to say goodbye to the national team. Great memories remain and I say to you all, thank you.’
The Swiss football federation paid tribute to Shaqiri and claimed that a part of the countrys footballing history goes with the star as he exits the international scene.
‘With Shaqiri, a big part of the Nati’s history is gone. In recent years, the attacking midfielder was the man for special moments,’ the SFV said.
‘We thank you with all our hearts for the many unforgettable commitments and the wonderful goals and assists in the national team and wish you the best for your future, and much success.
You have touched and conquered our hearts with your game and your goals.’
‘Nobody has scored more goals for Switzerland in finals tournaments than Shaqiri with 10: five in the Euros and five in World Cups.
‘Only six other players have scored five or more goals at both the Euros and the World Cup: Michel Platini, Jurgen Klinsmann, Zinedine Zidane, Thierry Henry, Cristiano Ronaldo and Romelu Lukaku.’
Shaqiri currently plays his club football in MLS with Chicago Fire.