Switzerland Calls Up In-Form Sion Forward Boteli for Nations League Squad
After a strong start to the season, 20-year-old Sion forward Winsley Boteli earned his first call-up to the Switzerland national team on Thursday. The World Cup quarterfinalists recognized Boteli’s impressive form, which reportedly attracted interest from Champions League clubs like Galatasaray and Porto.
Boteli has scored 12 goals in 14 matches so far, including a hat trick against Ajax last month during the Conference League qualifying playoffs. His rise caught attention beyond Switzerland, with the Congo soccer federation, where he has family roots, showing interest. Last week, Boteli publicly confirmed his commitment to Switzerland.
Additional Young Talent Joins Swiss Squad
Alongside Boteli, 20-year-old Parma defender Sascha Britschgi received his first call-up. The 25-man squad named by coach Murat Yakin will compete in Nations League matches versus Scotland, Slovenia, and North Macedonia.
Captain Granit Xhaka returns after an impressive World Cup performance, extending his national record to 152 appearances. The Sunderland midfielder will turn 34 just after Switzerland’s opening Nations League match against North Macedonia on September 26.
Breel Embolo, who was controversially sent off during the World Cup quarterfinal loss to Argentina, is included following his transfer to Atlanta United in Major League Soccer. Another uncapped player, 21-year-old center back Zachary Athekame, joins the squad while on loan from AC Milan at Lyon.
Five Players Linked to Geneva Join Swiss Squad
Boteli and Athekame are among five squad members with ties to Geneva's Servette youth system. Along with World Cup breakout star Johan Manzambi, Denis Zakaria, and Zeki Amdouni, these players have collectively made just six appearances for Servette, with Zakaria serving as Monaco’s captain today.
Manzambi shared a nostalgic photo on Instagram with Athekame, reflecting on their early days together.
Nations League Schedule
- September 26: Switzerland vs North Macedonia (away)
- September 29: Switzerland vs Scotland (away)
- Home matches in Lucerne: Slovenia and North Macedonia
