Shaqiri Returns to Basel: A Triumphant Homecoming Sparks Hope for New Season

Xherdan Shaqiri has made a triumphant return to FC Basel, the club where his illustrious career began. The 32-year-old midfielder signed a three-year contract with the Swiss side after mutually parting ways with Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire. Shaqiri, who is known for his creativity on the pitch, expressed his joy at returning to his hometown club, emphasizing the deep-rooted connection he has with Basel and the region. "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," Shaqiri said in a statement. His affection for the club is palpable, as he reminisced about his early days in the Basel academy, where he made his mark between 2009 and 2012. During his first stint with the club, he made 130 appearances, netting 23 goals and helping Basel secure three Swiss Super League titles. Shaqiri’s career trajectory took him across Europe, playing for prestigious clubs such as Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Liverpool, and Lyon, before making the move to the MLS in February 2022. His time in Chicago was notable as he became the highest-paid player in the league, earning $8.15 million in guaranteed compensation during his first season. Despite the financial windfall and the high expectations associated with his move to the U.S., Shaqiri's tenure in MLS did not yield the success he had hoped for, leading to the mutual termination of his contract. Sporting director Daniel Stucki expressed his excitement about Shaqiri's return, highlighting the significance of bringing back a player of his caliber. "We have been talking to Xherdan for weeks and are extremely happy that his return to Basel has finally worked out," he said. The desire for Shaqiri to rejoin the club was evident, and Stucki noted that this signing not only signals a strong commitment to the team but also serves as an encouraging sign for Swiss football as a whole. Shaqiri's return to Basel is more than just a homecoming; it represents a reunion with the fans who have supported him from the beginning of his career. As Switzerland's second most capped player, with 125 international appearances, Shaqiri has made significant contributions to his national team, including memorable performances in European Championships. However, he has now stepped away from international duty following Switzerland's exit in the round of 16, allowing him to focus entirely on his club career. As Shaqiri gears up for the new season with FC Basel, fans are hopeful that his experience, skill, and passion will reinvigorate the squad and elevate the team's performance in the Swiss Super League. The excitement surrounding his return is palpable, and with the Joggeli stadium set to be filled with eager supporters, Shaqiri's comeback is poised to be one of the highlights of the upcoming season.