Shaqiri Sets Sights On Euro 2024 Triumph, Dismisses Vacation Claims

Xherdan Shaqiri is set to take centre stage for Switzerland once again, dismissing doubts about his match fitness ahead of Euro 2024. Shaqiri, who will feature in his seventh major tournament in Germany, aims to continue his illustrious career as Switzerland kicks off their Group A campaign against Hungary on Saturday.

The 32-year-old has been instrumental for Switzerland, contributing to 46 percent of the team's goals at major tournaments over the past decade. He became the fifth player to reach 100 caps for his country two years ago. Despite his experience, coach Murat Yakin has questioned Shaqiri's ability to play back-to-back games in the competition.

Shaqiri responded firmly, stating, "It's almost embarrassing to have to answer this question. Every player who comes into the national team can and wants to play -- over the full distance. No one should only show up for work half the time. I don't see any problems with that. Did (Yakin) really say that? I gave the answer: I'm here with the national team because I want to help the team and play as much as possible. I didn't travel to the European Championships to take a vacation."

Xherdan Shaqiri (@XS_11official) June 12, 2024

Shaqiri scored three times during qualifying as Switzerland finished five points behind group winners Romania. They drew five of their 10 fixtures in a group that included Israel, Kosovo, and Belarus. Switzerland has demonstrated their ability to compete against top sides in recent tournaments, notably beating France on penalties at Euro 2020.

The former Liverpool midfielder believes that the current squad has the quality to succeed in Germany. "It's my seventh finals, and each one has its story," Shaqiri said. "I love the tension before tournaments; it doesn't exist anywhere else. Since I joined the national team, we have continually improved."

Shaqiri is hopeful that his national team can lift an international honour in the years to come. "The respect of the opponents and the public for us has grown, as has the quality in the national team. Many players have important roles at big clubs," he noted.

"To talk about the best national team of all time, we don't have the big exploit -- three years ago we were very close to the semi-finals. The next generation is in the starting blocks and I hope that at some point Switzerland can lift a trophy," Shaqiri concluded.