Veteran Swiss Defender Fabian Schär Retires from National Team

Swiss defender Fabian Schär has retired from international play, following teammates Yann Sommer and Xherdan Shaqiri. Schär, aged 32, shifts focus to his Premier League club Newcastle United after over 10 years and 86 matches with Switzerland. His last game was the Euro 2024 quarter-final against England.

Veteran Swiss defender Fabian Schär announced his retirement from the national team on Monday, becoming the third experienced player in the European Championship quarter-finalist squad to focus on club soccer.

Schär, goalkeeper Yann Sommer, and playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri, who spent over a decade on the same team, have collectively played more than 300 games for Switzerland. All three made their senior international debuts while playing for Basel.

The 32-year-old Schär stated through the Swiss soccer federation that he wishes to concentrate on his career with Premier League club Newcastle United. 'After more than 10 years and 86 matches with Switzerland, the moment has come to say my goodbyes,' said Schär, who scored eight goals for the national team. Schär's final match for Switzerland was the Euro 2024 elimination against England, culminating in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, where he successfully converted his spot kick.

(With inputs from agencies.)