Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to an end a distinguished 12-year career with the Swiss national team. The 35-year-old goalkeeper, who has been a key figure for Switzerland, made 94 appearances for his country and was a prominent presence during a number of major tournaments.
Sommer’s decision to retire follows Switzerland’s quarter-final exit from Euro 2024, where they were narrowly defeated by England on penalties. This loss marked the end of a remarkable international journey for Sommer, who has been synonymous with Swiss football excellence over the past decade.
Sommer’s career with the national team began in 2012 when he took over as Switzerland’s number one goalkeeper from Diego Benaglio. Since then, Sommer has been a constant in the Swiss squad, becoming a reliable and commanding presence between the posts. His tenure with the national team saw him participate in the knockout phases of the last six major tournaments, underscoring his importance to Swiss football.
In a statement released by the Swiss football association, Sommer expressed his gratitude and pride in his international career. “My time with the national team has meant a lot to me,” Sommer said. “I look back with pride on the many unforgettable moments, the exciting matches, the victories celebrated together, and the challenges we have overcome together.”
One of Sommer’s most memorable moments came during Euro 2020, when he made a decisive penalty save against France’s Kylian Mbappe in the Round of 16. This crucial save not only secured Switzerland’s passage to the quarter-finals but also etched Sommer’s name into Swiss football history as a key figure in the team’s first major quarter-final appearance since 1954. His performances throughout the tournament were instrumental in Switzerland’s impressive run, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and solidifying his reputation as one of Europe’s top goalkeepers.
Sommer’s impact on Swiss football extends beyond just his penalty-saving heroics. His leadership and consistency have been vital for Switzerland, particularly in major tournaments where the team often faced formidable opponents. Sommer’s ability to remain calm and composed in high-stakes situations has been a hallmark of his career, and his contributions have been integral to Switzerland’s sustained success on the international stage.
Throughout his career, Sommer has been a symbol of reliability and resilience. His performances have earned him admiration from fans and respect from peers, and his departure from the national team marks the end of an era for Swiss football. The goalkeeper’s role in helping Switzerland navigate through tough matches and his key saves in critical moments will be remembered as highlights of his international career.
As Sommer steps away from international duty, he will continue to play for Inter Milan, where he has been a vital player since joining the club. His focus will now shift to his club career, where he will aim to replicate the success and consistency that defined his international career.
Yann Sommer’s retirement from international football is a poignant moment for Swiss football fans, marking the end of a significant chapter. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the many memorable performances and the impact he made on Swiss football during his 12-year international career.
