Swiss media giant Blick has stirred up a passionate football debate with a compelling question: Should Xherdan Shaqiri return to the national team? After a brilliant performance for FC Basel in their 4-0 victory over FC Zurich, many are wondering whether the Swiss superstar still has more to offer on the international stage.
Shaqiri, who announced his retirement from the Swiss national team following the 2024 European Championship in Germany, is one of the country’s most decorated players. With 125 international appearances and 32 goals, including several stunning strikes, he has long been considered a symbol of Swiss football excellence. His influence on the pitch has never been in question — but does he still belong in the national setup?
A Divided Opinion: Potential vs. Risk
Shaqiri is currently lighting up the Swiss Super League, proving he’s still a standout talent. As FC Basel's captain, his leadership and playmaking skills have reignited discussions among fans and experts alike. However, opinions on a potential comeback are split.
In a significant interview with Blick at the end of last year, Shaqiri officially ruled out a return, though he left the door slightly ajar with a classic football cliché: "Never say never." Since his retirement, Switzerland has struggled — winning only one of their last eight matches, a friendly against Luxembourg.
With crucial international fixtures approaching — including away games against World Cup hosts USA and Mexico in June, followed by high-stakes World Cup qualifiers against Kosovo, Sweden, and Slovenia in the fall — the need for experience and quality is more pressing than ever.
Voices From the Football Community
Several well-known figures have weighed in on the possibility of a Shaqiri return:
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Giorgio Contini, coach of Young Boys and former national team assistant, acknowledges Shaqiri’s value:
“Players like him can always make the difference. If he has the right mentality and performance levels, he could still be valuable.” -
René Weiler, sporting director at Servette, disagrees:
“Shaqiri benefits from the lower intensity of the Swiss league. After a great international career, he retired at the right time and should enjoy his current role at Basel.” -
Beni Huggel, former national team player and TV pundit, believes there’s still a case to be made:
“If he keeps up this form past the summer break, he could be an interesting attacking option for the World Cup qualifiers.” -
Blerim Xhemaili, another former international and now analyst, sees a risk:
“The dual burden of club and country was tough for him, especially with recurring injuries. He might not accept a bench role, and returning could be physically risky.” -
Fabienne Humm, former international player and Blick expert, is more decisive:
“He doesn’t need to return. His current form is likely because he has time to rest and focus on his body — something he couldn’t do with national team duties.” -
Rolf Fringer, ex-national coach and TV analyst, remains skeptical:
“Just because Shaqiri is performing well at Basel doesn’t mean he can replicate that at international level. He thrives on freedom — something he fully enjoys only at club level.”
What’s Next?
Despite his stellar current form, there are no indications that Swiss national coach Murat Yakin is considering asking Shaqiri to reverse his decision. The focus, for now, seems to be on building a team for the future — one that may or may not include the iconic No. 23.
Shaqiri’s next move remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that his name continues to spark debate in Swiss football circles — a testament to the legacy he has built.
So, should he return? That may depend not just on his fitness and form, but on whether he still sees himself as a leader on the biggest stage — or whether his time in red has truly come to a dignified end.