Xherdan Shaqiri Basel return has transformed the club’s season, placing them on top of the Swiss Super League after years of underperformance. The 33-year-old Swiss star, who left Basel in 2012 for Bayern Munich, is back home and making a massive impact with goals, assists, and leadership.
From Chicago Fire Exit to Basel Revival
Shaqiri left Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire earlier this season after a disappointing stint. Now, the Xherdan Shaqiri Basel return is paying off — with the club chasing its first league title since 2017. Just last weekend, Shaqiri netted two stunning goals in a 4-0 victory over rivals Zurich.
His first goal was a thunderbolt from a tight angle that bounced off both post and bar before going in. He followed it up with a curling free-kick to seal the win. “It was a statement,” said Shaqiri. “Look at the result, there’s nothing more to say.”
Xherdan Shaqiri Basel Return Powers Goal Surge
Shaqiri is now joint top scorer in the league with 13 goals and 14 assists from just 28 matches. That’s more than he managed in his entire time with Chicago Fire. One more goal in their upcoming match against Yverdon, and he’ll equal his MLS total in just half a season.
Basel’s Title Hopes Boosted by Club Legend
Basel’s dominance in Swiss football faded after 2017, the same year Chicago Fire last reached the playoffs. Now, with the Xherdan Shaqiri Basel return, the club has found its rhythm again. Shaqiri first joined Basel at age 8 and helped them win multiple titles before moving to Europe’s top leagues. He later lifted Champions League trophies with Bayern and Liverpool.
The team currently sits six points ahead in the league and is set to enter the championship playoff round. A strong finish could see them secure Champions League qualification for the first time since 2018.
National Team Farewell Frees Up Focus
Shaqiri retired from international football after UEFA Euro 2024, where Switzerland reached the quarterfinals. He scored in the shootout against England, but it was his last act in a record-setting 125-cap career.
Without long travel for national duty, Shaqiri has managed his fitness better this season. “We set the pace,” he said after a four-match winning streak. “Let’s see what the others do.”
What’s Next for Basel?
With six rounds remaining and the league entering its final stage, Basel’s momentum — driven by the Xherdan Shaqiri Basel return — could bring long-awaited silverware back to St. Jakob-Park.
Stay tuned for updates on Basel’s title race and Shaqiri’s quest to lift his hometown club back to the top.
