Silvan Widmer
MainzRB
Possession Builder
Mar 5, 1993 (33)
Right
6'0"
170 lb
Starts once at World Cup
Widmer generated one tackle (one won) and three clearances in Saturday's 3-1 defeat versus Argentina.
Analysis: Widmer would appear from the bench Saturday, notching a decent 34-minute shift as he recorded one tackle won and three clearances. The defender would only start in one of his five appearances at the World Cup, recording two interceptions, four tackles and nine clearances. He now heads back to Mainz, where he will likely have a starting role waiting on the right flank.
Could start against Algeria
Widmer is fully fit and could start Switzerland's Round of 32 against Algeria after missing just one training session due to a hip issue, according to Radio Tele Suisse.
Analysis: Widmer's quick return to full training puts him in direct contention for the starting right-back role against Algeria, competing with Dennis Zakaria for the position if Luca Jaquez (undisclosed) is ruled out. The Mainz right-back enjoyed a solid 2025/26 Bundesliga season, making 27 appearances across 1,819 minutes and contributing two goals and one assist for his club, and brings valuable experience and an attacking threat from full-back that Switzerland will hope to utilize in what is a decisive fixture. His ability to combine defensive reliability with forward runs and crossing output makes him a key option for coach Murat Yakin as the Swiss look to qualify for the round of 16.
Back in training after hip concern
Widmer (hip) returned to team training on Tuesday after missing Monday's session, according to bluewin.
Analysis: Widmer bounced back quickly from the hip issue, rejoining the team session on Tuesday and putting himself in direct competition with Dennis Zakaria for the right back berth against Algeria, with Luca Jaquez's availability for the clash remaining uncertain.
Suffering from hip injury
Widmer was not in training Sunday due to a hip injury ahead of Thursday's match against Algeria, according to Lucas Werder of Blick Sports.
Analysis: Widmer is bringing some concerns to the Swiss team ahead of their round of 32 game, as he was unable to train due to a hip injury. This will be something to watch for the team, as he did start in one game and has appeared in their last two, a useful option at right-back. That said, if he were to miss time, expect Luca Jaquez or Denis Zakaria to start on the right.
Little impact but active in attack
Widmer had four crosses (one accurate) and four clearances in Thursday's 4-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Analysis: Widmer came into the side at right back at the expense of Denis Zakaria after starting the opening game on the bench. He had the fewest touches of any Swiss defender and completed just 20 passes as Switzerland's attacking play was channeled more through Ricardo Rodriguez and Dan Ndoye on the opposite flank. However he was far from inactive, making several runs into dangerous areas and getting into the opposition box on multiple occasions, though he was unable to turn that into a shot or a chance created.
Set to start at right-back
Widmer has been named in Switzerland's World Cup squad and is expected to start at right-back under coach Murat Yakin, arriving at the tournament after a solid campaign with Mainz in the Bundesliga.
Analysis: Widmer contributed two goals and one assist alongside 40 tackles across 27 appearances this season, providing the attacking and defensive output expected of a modern full-back at the highest level. His ability to get forward and contribute in the final third while maintaining his defensive responsibilities makes him a well-rounded option on the right side of the Swiss backline, and his Bundesliga experience gives him the physical and tactical preparation needed to perform in a demanding tournament environment. Widmer is a reliable and experienced option for manager Murat Yakin on the right flank, bringing familiarity with the national team's system and the composure to deliver consistent performances under pressure.
Provides assist in win
Widmer assisted once to go with one cross (zero accurate) and one chance created in Sunday's 2-1 victory against FC St. Pauli.
Analysis: Widmer set up Phillipp Mwene's 40th minute goal after taking Phillip Tietz's layoff, exploding down the right flank at full speed and hitting the byline before cutting it back for a simple close-range finish. He added two tackles and three clearances to round out a solid all-around performance, continuing his steady impact this season. He now sits on two goals and one assist across 26 Bundesliga appearances, (21 starts), showing consistent minutes and reliable contributions.
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