Swiss Footballer Silvan Wallner Retires at 22 to Focus on Following Jesus Christ

Published

2 years ago

November 15, 2024

Photo source: Google

Silvan Wallner, a 22-year-old Swiss midfielder, has announced his retirement from professional football to focus on his faith and commitment to following Jesus Christ.

Wallner, who began his professional career in 2020 with FC Zurich, has played over 100 matches across different clubs, including Wil and Austrian side Blau-Weiß Linz.

He joined Linz on a two-year contract in September and was expected to play a pivotal role in the team.

However, his announcement has shifted the focus from his athletic prowess to his deeply personal convictions.

In a statement released through his current club, Wallner explained his decision, emphasizing the importance of his Christian faith.

“I am a devout Christian, and I read the Bible. I make my own decisions about my life,” he said.

“I wish to follow Jesus Christ, and the biblical day of rest has become important to me.

This means that I no longer want to play professionally on Saturdays.”

Wallner also clarified that he is not affiliated with any particular church but made this decision based on his understanding of the Bible and his personal convictions.

Wallner’s choice to step away from professional football has sparked a range of reactions.

While some fans and pundits are surprised by his decision to retire at such a young age, many have expressed admiration for his courage and commitment to his beliefs.

His statement also included gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his career.

“I say a big thank you to people who have accompanied and supported me in my sporting career,” he added.

The young midfielder was recently part of the Swiss U21 national team and made his last international appearance in early September during a 1-2 loss to Albania.

Walid Acherchour Backs Lamine Yamal to Win 2026 Ballon d’Or

Published

2 days ago

October 10, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

French football pundit Walid Acherchour has named Lamine Yamal as his pick to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, sparking reactions among football fans.

Acherchour’s choice came as a surprise to some fans, who expected him to support fellow Frenchman Kylian Mbappé instead.

Speaking about his prediction, Acherchour expressed confidence in Yamal’s chances of winning the prestigious individual award.

“For me, Lamine Yamal, he is going to get it [2026 Ballon d’Or]. For me, there’s no doubt anymore,” Acherchour said, as quoted by Actu Foot. That start to the season shows that in fact, he was injured during the World Cup. He was the best player in La Liga, and he won the World Cup.

“Even if, for me, in fact, he doesn’t have the Ballon d’Or unanimously because his World Cup was average, even being average, he won it with Spain. He won La Liga with Barça.”

Sport

David Silva Names His Favourite to Win 2026 Ballon d’Or

Published

4 days ago

October 8, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Former Manchester City player David Silva has shared his thoughts on the 2026 Ballon d’Or and revealed who he believes could win the prestigious award.

During a recent interview, the former midfielder was asked who he thinks will win the award, and he named Fabian Ruiz.

Silva’s choice sparked reactions from fans, especially as he did not mention Barcelona star Lamine Yamal as one of his picks.

“For me, teamwork is the most important thing, because without it you cannot win. If I had to give the Ballon d’Or to someone, it would be Fabian, because he has won the most titles in the last two years.

“He does not get enough recognition, I do not know why, because he is a wonderful player. I admire him a lot.”

Sport

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal Future Remains Uncertain After Squad Exit

Published

6 days ago

October 6, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the Portugal national team remains uncertain following his sudden departure from the squad ahead of the team’s Nations League match against Denmark.

The 41-year-old forward left the national team camp after he was left on the bench during Portugal’s 2-1 win over Norway and was informed that he would not start against Denmark. Ronaldo later said he would explain his decision to leave the camp at a later time.

Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has since said the door remains open for Ronaldo to return to the national team. Jesus said the decision ultimately rests with Ronaldo, while the Portuguese Football Federation has also described the situation as a misunderstanding.

Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading scorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances, and his next decision could determine how his international career ends.