Swiss football legend: Proud of Jaka and Shaqiri, I realize that in their breasts they beat two hearts
(8 years ago)Swiss football legend Alex Frey, who is currently the coach of young people at Basel's football club, has given an interview to Swiss Blick daily, in which he says it is foolish to criticize Granit Jaka and Gerdan Shaqiri for the symbol of the eagle. He says he understands that in the breasts of [...]
Alex Frey, what did you think of when you saw Granit Jaka and Gerdan Shaqiri celebrating with the sign of the Eagle?
Frey: Probably not one of the best views of the World Cup. But the subject goes deeper. I think there's a lot of angry citizens everywhere, but I think some even crazier comment we've never seen before.
Explain...
Frey: I think that's normal. We have many Albanian players. It is very logical that two hearts beat on their breasts. For that, I think it's normal.
In what way?
Frey: It's a reflection of European society. There's a lot more and more mix between peoples, and that's normal when we have no boundaries between us. Look, the Italians in Switzerland are perfectly acceptable today. So nobody's seen as a fool because of his Italian name.
Do you think Albanians are not yet accepted this way?
Frey: Of course, they are integrated in their daily way of life. But in their homes, I believe they still live with their country's culture, clearly this is the second generation. This is not bad.
Okay, but you still got a little identity...?
Frey: It's natural. But to a degree. After all, I think the main thing in sports is to be successful. The quality of Jaka and Shaqiri helps. They constantly offer excellent performance in the field. This is more important than their symbols or what anthem sleeps in their hearts. I'm proud of them in all ways. /Periscopi/