Switzerland explain decision to give Alisha Lehmann a Euro 2025 bodyguard ahead of Spain clash

Despite playing just nine minutes in this summer's Euros in Switzerland, Lehmann has been given extra protection due to her significant popularity with fans at the tournament. Fans often target her for a selfie and that is not likely to go away in the run-up to the Swiss' last eight clash with Spain on Friday.

Sven Micosse, press spokesperson for the Swiss women's national team, told Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet: "We always ensure that the safety of the players is our top priority in all stadiums. This is organized by UEFA during the tournament, and our head of security is always on site. After the matches, he is always there when the players approach the fans, and due to Alisha Lehmann's fame, he sometimes accompanies them a little further."

The Juventus star is not the most skilful player in the women's game but going by her social media following, she is the most popular. The 26-year-old has more than 17 million Instagram followers, despite not always being a regular for club and country. She will hope to play some part against World Cup holders Spain this week, though.

Lehmann, whose sole appearance came against Finland in the group stages, will likely be on the bench again as tournament hosts and Group A runners-up Switzerland entertain Group B winners Spain at Stadion Wankdorf in Bern on Friday night.