When was the last time Stephan El Shaarawy played for Italy before Euro 2024 Round of 16 clash vs Switzerland?

Stephan El Shaarawy started the Euro 2024 Round of 16 clash for Italy against Switzerland, marking his first appearance for the Azzurri since November 17, 2023.

His last appearance for Italy's national team came against North Macedonia in a Euro 2024 qualifier in November. El Shaarawy came on as a substitute in that game and played only 14 minutes, scoring one goal.

His last start for Italy came in the previous game against England, where the AS Roma attacker played for 87 minutes. The winger started his career as one of the brightest prospects in Italian football and was a key player for AC Milan.

He made his international debut in 2012 under Cesare Prandelli. He was 19 years old back then. El Shaarawy has since made 31 appearances for Italy's senior team, scoring seven goals and providing four assists.

He initially joined Roma in 2015 before having a spell with Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua. El Shaarawy returned to Roma in 2021. He has so far played 279 games for the Serie A club, scoring 61 goals and providing 41 assists.

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Luciano Spalletti explains Stephan El Shaarawy's inclusion in the Euro 2024 round of 16 first XI

The appearance against Switzerland marked Stephan El Shaarawy's first appearance at Euro 2024. Luciano Spaletti explained his choice ahead of the game, telling Sky Sports Italia:

"In attack, there are two wingers, one who can attack more, the other is El Shaarawy, who has always helped out in defence and now has the right maturity to be in this team."

The Roma star, however, was withdrawn at half time with Mattia Zaccagni replacing him. The defending champions are on the cusp of elimination as they currently trail 2-0.

Remo Freuler (37') and Ruben Vargas (46') have gotten on the scoresheet for the Swiss.