The ‘soap-opera’ between Taulant Xhaka and the Italian coach of the Albanian National Team, Gianni De Biasi continues. The harsh explanation by the Basel midfielder of his dissatisfaction with coach De Biasi the latest reacted through an interview given to the Swiss daily newspaper “Blick”. According to him Xhaka is neither Maradona nor Pele. He added that all players are equal in Albania.

“He informed me through a message after the match against Italy, where he was not part of the line-up, that he was returning to Basel for a training session. I said ‘Ok’, because he is neither Maradona nor Pele. All players are equal in the Albanian team. His act was not a surprise to me, due to numerous unpleasant gestures during the Euro 2016 finals when I left him on the bench as replacement,” declared De Biasi.

He also explained the motives behind his decision to leave the midfielder out of the line-up in this important match.

“He was not part of my plans, due to a different tactical scheme. Does Xhaka have a future in the Albanian team? This question should be addressed to him instead of me,” said the Italian coach.

At the end of this interview he spoke also about Amir Abrashi, saying that they have no problems with him.

“Amir has been experiencing knee problems. We did everything within our capacities to prepare him for this match, but this was not sufficient. His choice to leave the national team of course means something. His health is the most important issue. We have absolutely no problems with him,” ended De Biasi.