SDA Keystone | Thursday, November 7, 2024
National coach Murat Yakin is bringing on defender Miro Muheim for the last two internationals for the first time this year. Noah Okafor is one of the many returnees.
At 26 years of age, Miro Muheim could make his senior national team debut as early as next week. The versatile junior international is in Switzerland’s 26-man squad for the current Nations League decider on Friday in Zurich against Serbia and on Monday in Tenerife against European champions Spain.
The left back earned the nomination with strong performances for Hamburger SV, for whom he has been playing in the 2nd Bundesliga since his move from St. Gallen in the summer of 2022. The Zurich player has been in the starting lineup in all 13 of HSV’s competitive games this season and has also impressed with his offensive play.
Numerous absences in defense
Now Yakin gives a chance to Muheim, who trained in the youth team of FC Zurich and later in England at Chelsea, because the national coach has to complain about some defensive failures. Compared to the squad in October, Becir Omeragic, Ulisses Garcia and Michel Aebischer, who was last deployed on the left side, are missing due to injuries. Nico Elvedi is also injured and suspended. Augsburg striker Ruben Vargas remains out of action with an ankle injury.
Compared to the move together in October, Simon Sohm, Kevin Mbabu, Dereck Kutesa, Denis Zakaria and, for the first time since the European Championships in the summer, Ardon Jashari and Noah Okafor are back. Like Muheim, goalkeeper Pascal Loretz of FC Luzern as well as central defenders Aurèle Amenda (Eintracht Frankfurt) and Albian Hajdari (FC Lugano) are also without senior international duty.
The win against Serbia is necessary
The Swiss are still without a win after four games in the current Nations League and are under pressure ahead of the crucial two games. They need a win at home to Serbia in Letzigrund Zurich on Friday, otherwise they will be knocked out of the top flight of the European competition which was introduced in 2018 for the first time.
Time.news Interview: Unpacking Swiss Football’s New Talent with Miro Muheim
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Good day, everyone! Today, we have a special guest in the studio – Miro Muheim, a promising defender fresh off his inclusion in the Swiss national football team for the first time. Miro, thank you for joining us.
Miro Muheim: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: You’ve made quite a splash with your selection for the national team. How does it feel to be part of such a prestigious squad for the Nations League?
Muheim: It’s an incredible honor. I’ve always dreamed of representing my country, and to be selected by Coach Murat Yakin fills me with excitement and gratitude. Knowing that I’ll potentially be making my debut in such important matches against teams like Serbia and Spain is just amazing.
Editor: Speaking of the matches, they are crucial for Switzerland’s standing in the Nations League. What’s your mindset heading into these high-pressure games?
Muheim: The pressure is part of the game, and I try to embrace it. I focus on preparing well and staying confident. I want to contribute to the team, whether by defending solidly or pushing forward when the opportunity arises. It’s about playing for the badge and giving everything I have.
Editor: You’ve had strong performances with Hamburger SV that caught the national coach’s eye. What do you think has been the key to your success this season?
Muheim: A lot of it comes down to hard work and having confidence in myself. I’ve been fortunate to play in a supportive environment at Hamburger SV, where the coaching staff has helped me develop my skills further. Consistency in my performances, along with a strong network of teammates, has really helped me stand out.
Editor: It’s interesting to hear about your development. Many fans are curious about your playing style. How would you describe it?
Muheim: I see myself as a versatile player. I aim to be both solid defensively and dynamic in attack. I enjoy making overlapping runs and providing support for my teammates while ensuring I stay disciplined in my defensive duties. Ultimately, I want to be someone that both the coach and teammates can rely on.
Editor: Now, with your debut potentially just around the corner, how are you preparing mentally for that experience?
Muheim: I’ve been focusing on visualization techniques. I imagine myself in the game, dealing with various scenarios. I also talk to more experienced players who’ve been in similar situations, absorbing their advice. It’s important to remain calm and trust my training while staying open to learning from every moment.
Editor: That’s a great approach! Lastly, Miro, what message do you have for Swiss football fans who are excited to see you play?
Muheim: I want to thank them for their support! It means everything to me. I promise to give my all whenever I step on the pitch, and I hope to make them proud. We’re building something special in this team, and I can’t wait to be a part of it!
Editor: Fantastic! We’re all looking forward to watching you in action. Best of luck in the upcoming matches, Miro!
Muheim: Thank you! I appreciate it.
Editor: And that’s a wrap for today’s interview. Keep an eye on Miro Muheim and the Swiss national team as they gear up for some thrilling matches in the Nations League!