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Switzerland Calls Up In-Form Sion Forward Boteli for Nations League

Switzerland Adds Rising Star Boteli to Nations League Roster

After impressing early in the season, 20-year-old forward Winsley Boteli from Sion has earned his first call-up to the Swiss national team. Switzerland, who reached the World Cup quarterfinals, recognized Boteli's sharp form that has attracted attention from top European clubs like Galatasaray and Porto.

Boteli netted a hat trick against Ajax during the Conference League qualifying playoffs last month, contributing to his total of 12 goals in just 14 matches this season.

Though eligible through family ties to play for Congo—a nation that advanced to the World Cup round of 32—Boteli recently confirmed his dedication to Switzerland’s squad.

New Faces and Returns in Squad Selection

Alongside Boteli, coach Murat Yakin included 20-year-old Parma defender Sascha Britschgi for the first time. The 25-man roster prepares for Nations League matches against Scotland, Slovenia, and North Macedonia.

Veteran captain Granit Xhaka, coming off a strong World Cup showing, returns to extend his national appearance record to 152 games. The Sunderland midfielder will turn 34 just after Switzerland’s opening match in North Macedonia on September 26.

Also back is Breel Embolo, who was controversially sent off in the World Cup quarterfinal defeat by Argentina. Embolo recently transferred to Atlanta United in Major League Soccer.

Another uncapped player, 21-year-old center back Zachary Athekame, joins the squad once again. He is currently on loan at Lyon from AC Milan.

Notable Players with Geneva Roots

The squad includes several players connected to Geneva’s Servette youth system: Boteli, Athekame, World Cup breakout star Johan Manzambi, Denis Zakaria, and Zeki Amdouni. Combined, they only played six games for Servette. Zakaria, now the captain at Monaco, appeared in all six during the 2014-15 Swiss second division season.

Manzambi shared a nostalgic photo on Instagram showing himself with Athekame as boys, highlighting their long-standing connection.

Upcoming Matches

Switzerland will face Scotland on September 29 before hosting Slovenia and North Macedonia in consecutive home games in Lucerne.

  • Squad Highlights:
  • Winsley Boteli: 12 goals in 14 games, hat trick vs Ajax
  • Granit Xhaka: 152 international appearances, turning 34
  • Breel Embolo: Returned after World Cup suspension, new MLS club Atlanta United
  • Zachary Athekame: 21-year-old defender on loan at Lyon
  • Sascha Britschgi: First call-up, Parma defender

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