Yakin mixes big‑club stars with young prospects in the Nations League

Coach Murat Yakin released on Tuesday the list of 25 players called up by Switzerland for the first four matches of the Nations League, starting against North Macedonia on September 26. The team will face Scotland on September 29, Slovenia on October 3, and will return to Macedonia on October 6.

Club Diversity on the List

The list brings together players from clubs in different countries and competitive levels. Among the goalkeepers are Marvin Keller (Young Boys), Gregor Kobel (Borussia Dortmund) and Yvon Mvogo (Lorient). The defence includes names such as Manuel Akanji (Inter Milan) and Ricardo Rodriguez (Torino), as well as Adrian Bajrami (Braga).

Zeki Amdouni, who played for Benfica in the 2024/25 season, appears among the forwards, now wearing the Burnley shirt. His presence strengthens the attacking line alongside Winsley Boteli (Sion) and Breel Embolo (Atlanta United).

Adrian Bajrami, trained at the Eagles, was called up despite still being establishing himself at Braga. His inclusion highlights Yakin's bet on players who combine international experience with recent development.

In midfield, Murat Yakin selected names such as Ardon Jashari (AC Milan) and Granit Xhaka (Sunderland). Other representatives are Michel Aebisher (Union Berlin), Remo Freuler (Olympiakos) and Denis Zakaria (AS Monaco).

Besides Amdouni, the attack includes Cedric Itten (Werder Bremen) and Dan Ndoye (Nottingham Forest). The variety of leagues – Premier League to MLS – demonstrates the breadth of options at Yakin's disposal.

This mix of players from big clubs and less exposed teams reveals the strategy of balancing experience and renewal. With the first four commitments of the Nations League, the Swiss national team enters the competition with a diversified squad ready for the challenges.