Yann Sommer Retires from Swiss National Team to Focus on Club Career
- Yann Sommer, Switzerland's No. 1 goalkeeper, has retired from the national team at the age of 35.
- He aims to focus on playing for Inter Milan in the future.
- Sommer ends his national-team career after playing 94 games.
ZURICH (AP) — Yann Sommer, Switzerland’s long-standing goalkeeper, announced his retirement from the national team on Monday at the age of 35. This decision, communicated by the Swiss soccer federation, allows Sommer to concentrate on his club commitments with Inter Milan. His departure opens the door for Gregor Kobel of Borussia Dortmund to take over as the first-choice goalkeeper for the national squad. Sommer's illustrious international career spanned over a decade, during which he represented Switzerland in three World Cups and three European Championships since his debut in 2012. His final appearance came in a penalty shootout loss to England in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals last month. Notably, Sommer's standout moment came during Euro 2020 when he saved a crucial penalty from Kylian Mbappé, leading Switzerland to a dramatic victory over France. In addition to his national team achievements, Sommer has enjoyed significant success at the club level. He played a pivotal role in Inter Milan's Serie A triumph in his first season and has previously secured league titles with Bayern Munich and FC Basel. His experience and skill have made him a key figure in European football. With Sommer's retirement, the Swiss national team will look to Kobel, who has already made five appearances for the national side, including a match at the 2022 World Cup. Switzerland's next fixtures are scheduled for September 5 and 8, where they will face Denmark and Euro 2024 champions Spain in the UEFA Nations League.