Skhiri ends international career and turns focus to Köln

Ellyes Skhiri, a 31‑year‑old midfielder of 1. FC Köln, announced his retirement from the Tunisian national team via social media and said that he will henceforth focus exclusively on the Bundesliga and his club after the disappointing exit at the 2026 World Cup. The star of 1. FC Köln will now fully concentrate on the Bundesliga.

Last World Cup Result and Withdrawal

At the 2026 World Cup, Skhiri led Tunisia as captain through the group stage. The team finished fourth in Group F after defeats to Sweden (1:5), Japan (0:4) and the Netherlands (1:3). Two months later he drew the line.

Career Statistics and Farewell

Skhiri took part in three World Cups (2018, 2022, 2026) and four Africa‑Cup tournaments (2019, 2022, 2024, 2025). He made his debut in March 2018 in the 1:0 win against Iran. In total he earned 86 caps, scored four goals and played all nine World Cup matches, being substituted only once.

In an emotional post he wrote:

“For me, the time has now come to announce the end of my international career. Wearing this jersey and representing my home country has made me proud and it was a great honour.”

Skhiri counts the fourth place at the 2019 Africa Cup as his greatest achievement. He stresses that representing the country at the biggest tournaments was a privilege that shaped his career.

The midfielder recalled great victories and joyful moments, but also painful defeats, which he described as the toughest of his career. He emphasizes that his commitment and respect for the national team have always remained unshaken.

In closing he wished his former teammates, the coaching staff and the association members all the best and hopes that they will achieve great successes in the future, bringing joy and pride to the Tunisian people. He promises to always stand behind them. He thanks his team for the years together.