Yann Sommer, Switzerland’s long-time No. 1 goalkeeper, has retired from international duty at the age of 35 to focus on his club career with Inter Milan. The decision, announced by the Swiss soccer federation, paves the way for Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel to assume the role of Switzerland’s primary goalkeeper.
Sommer’s international career spanned a decade, marked by appearances in three World Cups and three European Championships. He made his debut in 2012 and went on to amass 94 caps for his country. His final appearance was in a penalty shootout loss to England in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals last month.
Sommer’s most celebrated moment in the Swiss jersey was his penalty save against Kylian Mbappe in the round of 16 at Euro 2020, securing a shootout victory over France after a 3-3 draw.
Beyond his international success, Sommer has enjoyed a decorated club career. He was a key part of Inter Milan’s Serie A title win in his first season in Italy. He also won league titles in Germany with Bayern Munich and four times with Basel in Switzerland.
Kobel, at 26 years old, has earned five caps for Switzerland, including a memorable appearance at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he replaced Sommer, who was sidelined by illness, and contributed to a 3-2 victory over Serbia.
Switzerland’s next fixtures are scheduled for September 5 and 8, against Denmark and Euro 2024 champion Spain, respectively. These matches will mark the start of their UEFA Nations League campaign, where they are part of a highly competitive group.
