Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka criticises teammates after 1-1 draw with Qatar

Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka voiced strong criticism of several teammates after the national team’s 1‑1 draw with Qatar at the World Cup. Xhaka said the players failed to follow the coach’s tactical instructions, lost discipline and allowed the team to lose control of the match. He warned that “you have to do what the coach asks, not act like a show‑man” and stressed the need for patience and discipline, but did not name any individual.

Former Swiss international Beni Huggel backed Xhaka’s remarks, pointing to midfielders and forwards such as Manzambi and Amdouni for “poor positioning” and insufficient effort. Blue Sport’s editor Andreas Boni described Xhaka as a leader who “always says what he thinks”, while noting that repeated public criticism could have varying effects on other players. Huggel added that having a captain willing to speak openly is valuable for the squad’s mentality.

The criticism highlights internal tensions within the Swiss side after the disappointing group‑stage result, with calls for tighter adherence to the coach’s game plan ahead of the tournament’s next matches.