Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer, 35, has announced his retirement from the national team after a distinguished 12-year career spanning 94 international appearances. Sommer, currently playing for Inter Milan, made his debut in May 2012 under coach Ottmar Hitzfeld and went on to represent Switzerland in three European Championships and two World Cups.In a statement, Sommer expressed his gratitude, saying, ‘It was a great honor and privilege to represent my country at the highest level for 12 years in 94 international games’. He added, ‘With the conclusion of another great tournament at the European Championship in our neighboring country Germany, where I previously spent unforgettable years in the Bundesliga, it’s now time to say goodbye’.Sommer’s international career was marked by significant achievements, including keeping 35 clean sheets in his 94 appearances. He played a crucial role in Switzerland’s success, helping the team reach the quarterfinals four times and the semifinals twice in major tournaments. His last game for the national team was the Euro 2024 quarterfinal against England on July 6 in Düsseldorf, which Switzerland lost in a penalty shootout.The goalkeeper’s retirement marks the end of an era for Swiss football. Sommer’s departure opens the door for Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel, 26, to become the new number one goalkeeper for the Swiss national team. The Swiss Football Association responded to the news with a heartfelt message: ‘Thanks Yann! 12 years of excellence, reliability, and good vibes’.Sommer’s decision comes as he looks to focus on his club career with Inter Milan and spend more time with his family. Despite the bittersweet nature of his retirement, Sommer leaves behind a legacy as one of the greatest goalkeepers in Swiss football history, having been a key figure in the national team setup since he was 15 years old.
Key points
- Yann Sommer retires from Swiss national team after 12 years and 94 appearances.
- Sommer participated in three European Championships and two World Cups, with his last game being the Euro 2024 quarterfinal.
- Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel is expected to become the new number one goalkeeper for Switzerland.
- Sommer kept 35 clean sheets in 94 international appearances.
Contradictions👾There is a minor discrepancy in the reported number of major tournaments Sommer participated in, with some sources mentioning five and others specifying three European Championships and two World Cups.
