As Kosovo prepares for its decisive match against Switzerland, national team defender Albian Hajdari has taken center stage with clear, mature, and confident statements regarding his commitment to the Kosovo national team. Speaking in the pre-match press conference, Hajdari addressed the team's current form, their objectives, and—most notably—his personal reasoning behind choosing to represent Kosovo over Switzerland.
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| Albian Hajdari at the press conference |
Kosovo in Strong Form: “We Enter This Match for Three Points”
Hajdari began by discussing the national team’s momentum and ambition:
“I believe every match is important, just like all the others. We are currently in a very good series of results. Apart from losing only the first match against Switzerland, we have either won or earned points in all the others.”
Kosovo has indeed shown significant improvement in recent months, building consistency and confidence. For Hajdari, the objective is clear:
“Against Switzerland we will give our maximum. We enter the match to win all three points. In the last game, we wrote history, but we want to continue writing history with points. We want the maximum.”
These statements capture the determination of a team that is no longer satisfied with symbolic victories. Kosovo aims for measurable progress—points, performance, and recognition.
Responding to Granit Xhaka: “It Was My Decision, My Conviction, and I Respect Everyone”
When asked about comments made by Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka, Hajdari remained composed and respectful, while explaining that his choice for Kosovo was fully intentional and well-thought-out.
“I believe that Leoni and I made our decision for Kosovo a long time ago. As I’ve said before, we discussed this choice with the people closest to us. Their guidance mattered. What others say is their opinion. I’m fine with what Granit said—it's his view. I respect him and his career, and I wish him only success.”
His tone was not defensive, confrontational, or emotional. Instead, he emphasized respect, personal conviction, and individual freedom—reflecting a level of professionalism rarely seen in players of his age.
Hajdari underlined that every footballer has their own reasons:
“Every player has had their own thoughts and decisions, whether for Kosovo or against Kosovo. Those who chose Kosovo—we welcome them. Those who didn’t, I wish them health and all the best.”
This comment highlights his maturity: no bitterness, no division, no criticism—just a clear, personal stance rooted in identity and belonging.
Was There Pressure from the Swiss FA? Hajdari Keeps the Door Closed
Journalists pressed further, asking whether the Swiss Football Federation had attempted to pressure him regarding his decision. Hajdari calmly declined to elaborate, signaling that he has addressed this topic enough in the past:
He said he preferred not to add more, implying the matter is settled and his focus remains on the future with Kosovo.
This response sends a clear message: the debate is behind him. His commitment to Kosovo is not temporary, circumstantial, or emotional—it is firm and final.
A Symbol of a New Generation: Confident, Rooted, and Ambitious
Albian Hajdari’s words reflect a growing trend among young players of Kosovar origin:
They feel connected to Kosovo not only through heritage, but through a genuine sense of belonging, pride, and responsibility.
This new generation sees Kosovo as:
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A country with rising football ambition
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A national team that competes with passion
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A place where they can lead, grow, and inspire
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A platform where their identity is celebrated, not questioned
Hajdari’s calm and thoughtful decision echoes a broader shift: Kosovo is no longer only an emotional choice—it is a sporting choice, a strategic one, and a professional one.
Looking Ahead: Kosovo Enters the Decisive Match with Purpose
With high motivation, strong recent performances, and unity within the squad, Kosovo approaches the match against Switzerland with:
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Discipline
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Confidence
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A growing pool of elite young talent
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A sense of mission to make history
And at the heart of this journey stands a defender who embodies the mentality of this new chapter: Albian Hajdari, a player who proudly and consciously chose Kosovo—and stands behind that decision without hesitation.