Murat Yakin
Murat Yakin is a former Swiss international defender who has built a managerial career almost entirely within Swiss football, with a notable detour to Spartak Moscow and a successful spell at Basel where he won league titles. Appointed Switzerland head coach in 2021, he guided the team to the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024 quarter-finals, demonstrating a pragmatic, defensively organised approach that maximises Switzerland's collective discipline over individual flair. A straight-talking, tactically conservative coach, he draws on deep familiarity with Swiss football's structures and personnel, which gives him credibility with a squad that punches above its weight consistently.
Basel, Switzerland · 1974-09-15
Profile
Murat Yakin, a Swiss-born former international defender, has managed the national team since 2021, guiding them through UEFA Euro 2024 where they reached the quarter-finals before losing to England. He typically deploys a 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-2-1 shape, favouring defensive solidity and compact pressing over expansive football. His club career included spells at Spartak Moscow and FC Basel. He has shown a willingness to trust younger players like Ardon Jashari alongside experienced heads.
Career
Switzerland2021 – present
Schaffhausen2019 – 2021
Sion2018 – 2019
Grasshoppers2017 – 2018Schaffhausen2016 – 2017
Spartak Moscow2014 – 2015
Basel2012 – 2014
Luzern2011 – 2012
Thun2009 – 2011Team identity
Yakin typically lines up in a 4-2-3-1, with Xhaka and Remo Freuler forming a disciplined double pivot that protects the back four and recycles possession efficiently. Akanji steps into midfield during build-up phases, giving Switzerland an extra passing option from deep. Wide midfielders Rubén Vargas and Dan Ndoye provide pace on transitions, while the team presses in organised mid-block rather than high-intensity pressing.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Switzerland's manager at the 2026 World Cup?
Murat Yakin is the head coach of Switzerland at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What is Murat Yakin's background?
Murat Yakin is a former Swiss international defender who has built a managerial career almost entirely within Swiss football, with a notable detour to Spartak Moscow and a successful spell at Basel where he won league titles. Appointed Swit…