Swiss Super League champion FC Thun confirmed on Monday that it has transferred two regular starters to clubs abroad. Defender Michael Heule will join German side Heidenheim, while midfielder Valmir Matoshi has signed with Austrian Europa League participant Sturm Graz. The combined fee for the two players is reported to be about €3.75 million (approximately $4.4 million).
Impact on Thun’s title‑defense campaign
Thun entered the 2026‑27 season as a surprise champion, having clinched its first Swiss league title last year after a remarkable promotion‑to‑championship run. The club’s early season results, however, have been disappointing. In its opening home match of the title defence, Thun suffered a 6‑0 loss to perennial powerhouse Young Boys. A week later, the team fell 7‑0 to Polish side Lech Poznan in the first leg of a Europa League qualifying playoff.
If Thun is eliminated after the return leg on Thursday, it will be relegated to the third‑tier UEFA Conference League beginning on October 15. The club’s European campaign began in the Champions League qualifying rounds in July, where it was knocked out by Dinamo Zagreb after holding a two‑goal lead deep into the second leg before defender Marco Bürki received a red card.
Recent departures and coaching change
Thun’s recent transfer activity reflects the attention the club attracted after its title‑winning season. Head coach Mauro Lustrinelli left for Union Berlin, and top prospect Ethan Meichtry moved to Genoa. Leading scorers Elmin Rastoder and Christopher Ibayi also departed, heading to Panathinaikos in Greece and Moroccan club MAS, respectively.
The sale of Heule and Matoshi continues a trend of talent drain from the modest Swiss side to richer leagues. Both players featured in more than 30 league matches last season, making them integral to Thun’s historic campaign.
Looking ahead
Thun now faces the challenge of rebuilding its squad while competing on multiple fronts. The club’s management has indicated that the transfer revenue will be used to strengthen the roster, but the loss of experienced players could hamper its ability to defend the title and progress in European competition.
Supporters and local media will be watching closely as Thun navigates the remainder of the season, hoping the club can retain its competitive edge despite the departures.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
