Mirko Salvi is pushing for the starting goalkeeper spot at FC Basel. The 32-year-old has taken advantage of Jonas Omlin's injury absence, winning all three of his Super League appearances, as reported by kicker.de this week.
Jonas Omlin returned to FC Basel in the summer as the clear number one. However, muscular problems in his thigh have sidelined the 32-year-old after just a few weeks. He has only played in the 1-0 defeat to Lausanne-Sport so far. In that match, Omlin conceded the decisive goal from the opponent's only shot in stoppage time. His physical condition remains a major question mark. For the three seasons from 2023/24 to 2025/26 alone, Transfermarkt records more than 300 days missed for Omlin due to injury and illness.
How has Mirko Salvi performed?
Mirko Salvi has used his opportunity almost perfectly. In matches against Servette, Thun, and FC Zürich, FC Basel emerged victorious all three times. Salvi conceded just three goals across these three games and kept a clean sheet in the 1-0 win in Geneva. This is a stark contrast to last season. Back then, he played in five league games, conceded 14 goals, and failed to keep a single clean sheet. Particularly in the derby against FCZ, Salvi advertised his case with several strong saves, securing the 2-1 win. "I was simply good in the game and I'm very satisfied that I could help the team today," Salvi told 20 Minuten.
Who will be FCB's number one?
The intriguing question now is how coach Stephan Lichtsteiner will decide once Jonas Omlin is fit again. As a new signing and the designated number one, Omlin fundamentally has an advantage. Salvi, however, made no secret of his desire to play. "Honestly, I prefer to be on the pitch than on the bench," said the goalkeeper. At the same time, he values his competitor: "Jonas is also a very good goalkeeper. I appreciate him a lot." If Salvi continues his current form, Lichtsteiner's decision will not get any easier. FC Basel is currently in a good position in the Super League. The team has collected points in the opening games and shows a solid defense, which is also reflected in the standings.
What role does injury susceptibility play?
Jonas Omlin's recurring injuries are a serious factor. Even during his time in Germany with Borussia Mönchengladbach and Bayer Leverkusen, the former Swiss national goalkeeper was repeatedly set back. A serious shoulder injury sidelined him for 153 days in the 2023/24 season. His quality is not in question. For Gladbach, he played 36 competitive matches and was even named team captain for a period. The current situation highlights the importance of a reliable second option. The injury situation of the entire squad can always be tracked on our injuries page.
What's next for FC Basel?
The next task for FC Basel is the home match next weekend. For Stephan Lichtsteiner, the goalkeeper question is one of the most important decisions ahead of this fixture. Mirko Salvi's performances have opened a real debate. Regardless of the personal decision, the club benefits from having two high-caliber goalkeepers. The complete schedule of the Rotblauen is available on our fixtures page. Salvi's contract with FC Basel runs until the summer of 2027.
