European Championship qualification
Captain Xhaka criticizes the Swiss team: “Like in a park”
The Swiss captain Granit Xhaka (l) found clear words. photo
© Tom Weller/dpa
Switzerland is still unbeaten in the European Championship qualification, but two draws in a row are affecting the mood. The captain criticizes the training, the coach defends himself.
In the European Championship qualifier, the Confederates gave up the victory they thought was certain by conceding a goal in added time – just like in the previous game against Romania (2:2). According to Xhaka, the main reason for this is poor training performance. “You can’t – if you don’t do so much all week and aren’t focused – invent a new rhythm,” said the 30-year-old: “I personally can’t do that and I don’t think any player in the world can either.”
When asked about his captain’s statements, national coach Murat Yakin defended himself. “We trained as usual, everything was under control,” said the former Bundesliga professional. He wanted to “discuss in private” with Xhaka and find out “what the idea behind his statements is.”
Xhaka admitted to holding back his criticism. He was “a little more pissed off than usual – and rightly so.” He tries “not to find too bad words,” because “then it will backfire.” It is “lucky” that Switzerland will be playing at home against outsiders Andorra next Tuesday “and not against a bigger nation”.