The return of Xherdan Shaqiri to FC Basel on a three-year contract has ignited excitement among fans and players alike. The 32-year-old midfielder bid farewell to Chicago Fire after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract, which was set to expire at the end of the 2024 MLS season.
In a statement, Shaqiri expressed his joy at returning to his hometown club, saying, “It fills me with pride and I am very happy that I can return to my hometown of FCB today. I have had a deep connection with the club and the region since I was a child. As a fan and of course as a player. I completed my football training in Basel and was then able to launch my international career. Now I want to attack again with FCB and I can hardly wait to see our fans again in the Joggeli.”
Having risen through the ranks of the Basel academy, Shaqiri made 130 appearances for the club between 2009 and 2012, scoring 23 goals and securing three Swiss Super League titles. His journey then took him to prestigious clubs like Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Stoke City, Liverpool, and Lyon before his stint at Chicago Fire in February 2022.
The magnitude of Shaqiri’s return was evident from the fact that he has previously won Premier League, Bundesliga, and two Champions League titles. His experience and skill set are expected to bolster Basel’s squad and enhance their performance in upcoming competitions.
Sporting director Daniel Stucki expressed his delight at Shaqiri’s return, stating, “We have been talking to Xherdan for weeks and are extremely happy that his return to Basel has finally worked out. The signing was only possible — also financially — because FCB, but above all Xherdan himself, really wanted this return.”
Shaqiri, who is Switzerland’s second most capped player of all time, has left an indelible mark on the international stage. He featured twice at the European Championship and made history as the first MLS player to score at the tournament with his goal against Scotland. Following Switzerland’s exit in the round of 16, Shaqiri announced his retirement from international duty after amassing 125 appearances for his country.
The reunion of Shaqiri with FC Basel has set the stage for an exciting chapter in his illustrious career, with fans eagerly anticipating his return to the field.
