Noémie Potier cancelled her prepaid Italian holiday in the summer of 2025 after receiving a sudden national team call-up from then-Switzerland coach Pia Sundhage, 20min.ch reported.
“Maman, Pia m’a écrit. Qu’est-ce que je fais?” the young forward asked her mother, before receiving an immediate reply to join the squad, she told the outlet.
Potier sacrificed her first self-funded vacation for the opportunity, admitting she lost the money spent on the trip. The unexpected summons triggered immediate nerves and tears of excitement as she prepared to switch her summer plans.
Switzerland to Panama switch
By 2026, the 21-year-old Lausannoise chose to represent Panama, the country of origin for her family. The decision followed the death of her grandfather two years prior.
Potier informed Swiss selection officials of her choice via email and thanked them for their prior support. She emphasized that switching international allegiance does not diminish her identity, stating she was born and raised in Switzerland.
Club career move to Nantes
On the club front, Potier left Grasshopper over the summer to sign with Nantes. The transfer marks her first professional stint playing abroad.
“[J]e gagne ma vie grâce au football,” Potier said of turning professional, describing the ability to earn a living from the sport as a crazy reality. She praised the infrastructure and management at her new French club as more professional than her previous environment in Switzerland.
Her ambitions include competing in the Champions League and eventually wearing the shirt of FC Barcelona. For now, she maintains a step-by-step approach to her career progression.
World Cup qualification debut
Potier awaits her first official appearance for Panama after an initial October match against New Zealand was cancelled due to an earthquake. She now targets a debut in late November against Canada during World Cup qualifiers.
“[C]e premier match sera tout de suite très important,” Potier said, acknowledging the heightened pressure of her upcoming debut. Her ultimate ambition remains playing in a World Cup tournament for Panama, with a long-term dream of potentially facing Switzerland on the international stage.
Questions about Noémie Potier's move to Panama
Which club does Noémie Potier play for currently?
Potier plays for French club Nantes, having moved from Grasshopper during the summer to begin her first professional experience abroad.
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