'In my heart' - Newcastle United star issues major statement regarding his future

The 32-year-old was capped 86 times for Switzerland across a decade, competing at three World Cups and three European Championships. Schar’s last game for his nation was the Euro 2024 quarter-final penalty shootout defeat to England.

Schar becomes the third Swiss player to hang up his international boots this summer after goalkeeper Yann Sommer and attacking midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri.

“It filled me with great pride to walk on the soccer fields of this world with the Swiss Cross on my chest,” Schar announced on Instagram.

“I was allowed to experience incredibly beautiful moments with the Nati and the emotions I was allowed to go through will accompany me throughout my life.

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“It’s also time to say thank you: to my fellow players, the staff and coaches and of course to my family and the environment. Without you, this trip would not have been possible!

“Above all, I would like to thank the Swiss fans who have supported me over all these years. It meant the world to me and I will carry you in my heart❤️”.

Schar will now focus on his Newcastle career. The centre-back is currently serving a three-match ban after he was controversially sent off for clashing with Ben Brereton Diaz during the Premier League opening day win against Southampton.

He is due to return for the away trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, September 15. By that time, he could face fresh competition for his place in the starting XI with Eddie Howe hoping to sign a central defender before Friday’s transfer deadline.

Schar, who joined Newcastle for just £3m from Deportivo La Coruna in 2018, has one-year left on his contract.