Switzerland head into the 2024 European Championships with plenty of experienced stars in their squad and they will be full of confidence going into their first game of the tournament against Hungary on June 15.
Switzerland were quarter-finalists at the last Euros in England and they will surely be looking to go on a deeper run this summer in Germany.
Soccernet.football takes a look at seven Switzerland players to watch out for when the tournament kicks off in a few days.
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7. Yann Sommer
The 35-year-old was impressive between the sticks this past season, conceding only 19 goals and keeping an impressive 19 clean sheets as Inter Milan stormed to their 20th Scudetto in the Serie A.
The veteran goalkeeper remains one of Switzerland’s most important players. Sommer is widely known for his shot-stopping ability, quick reflexes and excellent command of his penalty area.
His leadership and ability to organize the backline will be crucial for Switzerland at the Euros. He could prove to be the difference for his nation, as he can pull off important saves in very tight matches.
6. Fabian Schär
Schär is another seasoned member of this Swiss side. The Newcastle defender has established a reputation for himself as a consistent performer in one of the toughest leagues in the world.
The 32-year-old defender’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions, combined with his great passing will prove vital for Switzerland in their build-up play.
Schär can also contribute in attack for Switzerland thanks to his aerial ability. His positioning, composure and experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable during the tournament.
5. Denis Zakaria
The AS Monaco man will offer energy and physicality in the middle of the park for Switzerland. Zakaria is a robust and versatile player, capable of playing both as a defensive and box-to-box midfielder.
Also capable of breaking up opposition play and driving his team forward, the 27-year-old will be crucial in Switzerland’s transition from defense to attack in Germany.
Zakaria can also provide extra options in attack for The Swiss by making forward runs into the final third. He is definitely one to watch closely at the Euros.
4. Zeki Amdouni
One of the exciting young talents in this Swiss squad, Amdouni has the potential to be a pivotal player for Switzerland despite not being able to help Burnley avoid relegation from the Premier League this past season.
The 22-year-old forward links up play nicely, finds pockets of space and often delivers precise passes, attributes which can be vital in breaking down tight defenses.
We expect to see Amdouni play a significant role for Switzerland in Germany, providing a spark in their attack and utilizing his vision and flair in the final third to cause problems for opposition defenders.
3. Noah Okafor
Okafor is another exciting young talent in Switzerland’s squad who could play a massive role for them at the Euros. The AC Milan forward can play across the front line, making him a dynamic option for the Swiss attack.
The 23-year-old winger is blessed with blistering pace, impressive dribbling abilities and a keen eye for goal, attributes which help him stretch defenses and create scoring opportunities for his team.
Okafor will be looking to consolidate a decent debut campaign for AC Milan with an even better campaign for his nation in Germany and his team will be hoping he can deliver the goods.
2. Granit Xhaka
Xhaka, the captain of the Swiss national team, remains an indispensable figure in midfield. He enjoyed a fantastic season with Bayer Leverkusen, playing a significant role as they lifted the Bundesliga for the first time in their history.
The 31-year-old has a knack for stepping up in crucial moments, whether it’s delivering a decisive pass or scoring a long-range goal and his experience and leadership, both on and off the pitch will be important during the tournament.
The former Arsenal midfielder will certainly play a crucial role for Switzerland as they attempt to orchestrate a deeper run this year than their Euro 2020 quarter-final finish.
1 Manuel Akanji
The 28-year-old defender has established himself as a cornerstone of Switzerland’s defense and he will surely be a central feature for the Swiss throughout their Euro 2024 campaign.
The former Borussia Dortmund player enjoyed a fine 2023/2024 campaign in the Premier League, helping Manchester City to win a fourth consecutive league title after winning a continental treble in his first season as a Cityzen.
Akanji’s experience and calm demeanor in high-pressure situations will be crucial for Switzerland’s defensive solidity and his ability to occasionally pop up with important goals could also prove vital.
