MLS club Chicago Fire have confirmed the departure of Swiss winger Xherdan Shaqiri.
The Swiss international is now a free agent after agreeing to terminate his contract by mutual consent.
Shaqiri, 32, joined Fire from Lyon in Februrary 2022 and made 75 appearances for the club, scoring 16 goals and providing 13 assists.
“I believe this is the right time for me to explore new opportunities in my career,” said Shaqiri.
“I want to thank the club and the fans for their support during my time in Chicago. I wish the Fire nothing but success moving forward.”
Thank you, Shaq! 🫡
The Chicago Fire and Xherdan Shaqiri have agreed to terminate the midfielder’s contract. #cf97 pic.twitter.com/sjQbLtnIXY
— Chicago Fire FC (@ChicagoFire) August 14, 2024
Shaqiri began his senior career at Basel before representing Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Stoke, Liverpool and Lyon prior to arriving in MLS.
Sporting Director Georg Heitz said: “After discussions with Xherdan, we have mutually agreed that parting ways is in the best interest of all parties.
“We thank him for his contributions to the club and wish him success in the next chapter of his career.”
The midfielder retired from international duty last month after appearing for them at Euro 2024, where they reached the quarter-finals stage.
He scored a stunning goal against Scotland in one of two appearances at the tournament and hangs up his boots with 125 caps to his name.
Chicago return to MLS regular season action on Saturday, August 24, away at New York City FC.
