FC Thun trainer strips captaincy from two players amid unrest

FC Thun is experiencing internal unrest ahead of their Conference League match against FC Twente. Trainer Gian-Luca Privitelli has temporarily stripped captain Marco Bürki and deputy Jan Bamert of their captaincy.

The decision follows a poor run of form for the Swiss club and disciplinary issues involving both players. Bürki has received multiple red cards in recent months, while Bamert was sent off during a recent 4-2 loss to FC Zürich. Privitelli’s move is intended to signal that leadership requires responsibility and to prevent players from causing unnecessary damage to the team through disciplinary lapses.

Reports indicate the decision has caused surprise and dissatisfaction within the squad, with Bürki reacting emotionally to the news. Club chairman Andrés Gerber clarified that the measure is a “trial period, not a demotion,” and expressed hope that either Bürki or Bamert will resume captaincy duties shortly.