Xherdan Shaqiri Dominates the Field in Switzerland

Xherdan Shaqiri, a winner of the UEFA Champions League with Bayern Munich in 2013 and with Liverpool in 2019, boasts an impressive career filled with 20 trophies across various clubs. A Swiss football legend, he has 125 caps and 32 goals for the national team. Despite his achievements, Shaqiri faced challenges in Ligue 1 after joining Olympique Lyonnais from Liverpool in summer 2021, appearing in just 16 matches (with 2 goals and 3 assists) before moving to Chicago Fire in the MLS. After a two-year stint in the United States, he returned to his roots at FC Basel in August 2024, marking an exceptional comeback.

Initially needing few weeks to adapt, Shaqiri quickly established himself as a key player at FC Basel. The versatile forward, who can play as a right winger or number 10, became the team captain during the season. His impact on the game was significant, contributing to Basel’s 21st Swiss championship title—their first since 2017. Shaqiri scored 21 goals and provided 22 assists in 39 matches, proving he remains a potent force, concluding the season as the league’s top scorer, top assister, and best player.

Champion with Basel and Outstanding Statistics

Fabio Celestini, the former coach of FC Basel, praised Shaqiri’s management throughout the season. In an interview with la Tribune de Genève, he revealed the high expectations surrounding Shaqiri’s return: “When you think that thousands of people came just to see him appear on a balcony, it’s extraordinary. It reflects the passion surrounding the club. Shaqiri left for Bayern at a young age, and while he didn’t play much for Basel, he is deeply connected to the city. The match following his signing had 30,000 fans at the stadium against Yverdon, proving the excitement that surrounded his return. Initially, we didn’t score, even though we had been prolific before.”

The partnership between Shaqiri and the club has flourished, even after Celestini’s departure this summer. New coach Ludovic Magnin can rely on an in-form Shaqiri, who has netted 8 goals and provided 6 assists in 15 matches, keeping Basel competitive in the league, just one point behind FC Thoune. The Olympique Lyonnais, Shaqiri’s former club, is aware of his capabilities. Lyon’s coach, Paulo Fonseca, noted in a press conference, “A team that wins at Stuttgart is certainly strong! Offensively, they are excellent, with fast players and one capable of making a difference: Shaqiri. Basel’s game revolves around him.” As he returns to Groupama Stadium, Shaqiri aims to turn the tables against Olympique Lyonnais this time.