Chicago Fire player Shaqiri announces retirement from the Swiss national team

When you think of an epoch-making player, Xherdan Shaqiri is certainly one of the names that spring to mind. His performance at UEFA Euro 2024 was not only historic, but also marked his farewell to international football. The Chicago Fire FC midfielder, who is also a legend of the Swiss national team, announced his retirement from La Nati on Monday, July 15. At the age of 32, Shaqiri ends an international career with the national team, amassing 32 goals and 34 assists in 125 games, including appearances in four FIFA World Cups and three Euros.

Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).

Shaqiri is not just another name on the list of players who have their name remembered in soccer. He is the only Swiss player to have scored in the last three World Cups and Euros. What's more, he made history by becoming the first active MLS player to score in the continental tournament. His career began with the Chicago Fire in 2022, after being signed from French Ligue 1 side Lyon for a then record fee. Since then, he has scored 14 goals and 18 assists in 69 appearances, including 2 goals and 2 assists this season.

Despite ending his international career, Shaqiri remains an important part of the Chicago Fire. His last game for the club was in a 3-1 loss to Columbus Crew on May 18. The Chicago Fire are currently 14th in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 5 wins, 11 losses and 7 draws for 22 points. The club hasn't reached the MLS Cup Playoffs since 2017, and the presence of a player like Shaqiri, without injuries, could be vital for the team to climb the leaderboard.

Shaqiri's impact on the Swiss national team is undeniable. He has played in seven major tournaments, from the 2010 World Cup to Euro 2024, scoring a hat-trick against Scotland in the latter edition, becoming the first MLS player to do so. His two appearances at Euro 2024 were remarkable, even though Switzerland were eliminated in the quarter-finals. In his retirement announcement, Shaqiri was emphatic: "Seven tournaments, many goals, 14 years in the Swiss national team and unforgettable moments. It's time to say goodbye to the national team. Great memories remain and I say to all of you, thank you."

With his departure from international football, the question remains: what will be the next chapter in Shaqiri's career? At the moment, he remains an important figure at Chicago Fire, and his experience and skill will be crucial for the club in the coming challenges. Fire fans have been hoping that Shaqiri would live up to expectations since signing his contract.