Switzerland’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign kicks off on Saturday against Qatar, but notable midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri will not be in attendance. This marks a significant transition for the Swiss national team, as Shaqiri has been a key player for many years.
Xherdan Shaqiri’s Absence Explained
Xherdan Shaqiri, who has contributed richly to Swiss football, retired from international play in 2024. This decision means he will not participate in the World Cup. Despite stepping back from the national team, the 34-year-old continues to compete at the club level, currently playing for FC Basel in the Swiss Super League.
Career Highlights
- International Caps: 125
- International Goals: 32
- Club Journey: Basel, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Stoke City, Liverpool, Lyon, Chicago Fire
- World Cup Appearances: 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022
Born in Kosovo, Shaqiri’s family relocated to Switzerland when he was just one year old. This early move paved the way for him to represent Switzerland on the international stage. His club career has been extensive, starting and finishing at Basel, which signifies a full-circle moment for the talented midfielder.
The Road Ahead for Switzerland
Without Shaqiri, Switzerland is still poised with a strong squad. They are grouped with Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Qatar, and are expected to advance to the knockout stages. The absence of Shaqiri represents a substantial shift, yet the team remains confident in its capabilities on the world stage.
