Hamdi Salihi

Salihi begun his professional career at his boyhood club Vllaznia Shkodër, where he was promoted in the first team by coach Artan Bushati in the 2002–03 season; he made two appearances as the team finished runner-up to eventual champions Tirana.{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesa/alba03.html|title=Albania 2002/03|website=RSSSF|access-date=19 May 2018}} He had his breakthrough season in the 2003–04 season, netting his first Albanian Superliga goal in the opening week, a 4–1 away loss to Partizani Tirana.{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesa/alba04.html|title=Albania 2003/04|website=RSSSF|access-date=19 May 2018}} In cup, he notably scored four goals in a 9–0 away win versus Ada Velipojë in the second leg of second round. Salihi finished his first full-season by netting 14 goals in 33 league appearances, with Vllaznia finishing third.

Salihi scored his first top-flight hat-trick on 23 October 2004 in Vllaznia's 7–0 hammering of Laçi.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2004/10/23/albania/super-league/ks-vllaznia-shkoder/kf-laci/201540/?ICID=PL_MS_07|title=Vllaznia Shkodër vs. Laçi 7 – 0|publisher=Soccerway|date=23 October 2004|access-date=17 August 2018}} He was the most in-from striker during the first part of 2004–05 season in which he managed to score 16 goals in only 20 matches which ensured him a transfer to Greece.

In January 2005, Salihi moved for the first time outside the country by joining Panionios in then Alpha Ethniki on a three-year contract.{{cite web|url=http://www.vipsport.al/2019/03/nga-dita-e-pare-te-e-fundit-mr-322-goleshi-salihi-me-ndihmoi-nje-tragjedi-askund-si-te-skenderbeu/|title=Nga dita e parë te e fundit, "Mr. 322 golëshi" Salihi: Më ndihmoi një tragjedi, askund si te Skënderbeu|trans-title=From the first day to the last, “Mr. 322 goals” Salihi: A tragedy helped me, no one like Skënderbeu|publisher=VipSport.al|language=sq|date=30 March 2019|access-date=31 March 2019}} The young Albanian striker managed to play in 6 games, mostly coming on as a substitute in the last few minutes. He left the club following the end of the season and came back to Albania. Many years later he stated that the transfer was a mistake, adding that he was not ready to leave the country at such young age.{{cite web|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/ekskluzive-nje-jete-bomber-salihi-rrefen-roveshaten-e-fundit-tirana-me-maturoi-ja-keqardhja-e-karrieres/|title=EKSKLUZIVE/ Një jetë bomber, Salihi rrëfen "roveshatën" e fundit: Tirana më maturoi, ja keqardhja e karrierës|trans-title=Exclusive/ A life like bomber, Salihi confesses the last “overhead kick”: Tirana matured me, here's my career regret|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|author=Olsi Tujani|date=30 March 2019|access-date=31 March 2019}}

Salihi moved back to Albania and played for Tirana starting from the 2005–06 season. In his first match since returning in Albania, Salihi scored as Tirana started the Albanian Superliga with a 2–1 away win at Vllaznia Shkodër.{{cite news|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesa/alba06.html|title=Albania 2005/06|publisher=RSSF.com|access-date=20 May 2016}} Later on 16 September in the match day 4 against city rivals Dinamo, Salihi scored a brace, including a last-minute winner, to rescue his side a point. His was followed by another brace one week later against Skënderbeu Korçë. He had a very successful season winning the Albanian Cup and the Golden Boot as the highest scorer of the Albanian Superliga.{{cite news|url=http://www.giovanniarmillotta.it/albania/calcio/albaa06.html|title=Albanian Football Season 2005-06|work=Giovanni Armillotta|access-date=17 October 2015|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924022427/http://www.giovanniarmillotta.it/albania/calcio/albaa06.html|url-status=dead}}

He continued with Tirana for another half season, again being the highest scorer in the league before he left to purchase a career outside Albania. During his time at Tirana, Salihi became well-known all over the world for his goalscoring abilities. He finished eighth in The IFFHS World's best Top Division Goal Scorer 2006.{{cite news|url=https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/iffhs-scor.html|title=IFFHS' World's Best Top Division Goal Scorer of the Year 2006|website=RSSSF|access-date=20 October 2017}} Salihi later would go on to say that the transfer to Tirana was the best choice of his career, adding that at Tirana he matured as a player and person.

In January 2007, Salihi completed a transfer to SV Ried of the Austrian Bundesliga. In the remaining part of 2006–07, Salihi scored 6 goals in 15 league appearances as Ried finished runner-up in championship. By finishing second in the league, Ried won the right to play European football. On 19 July 2007, in the first leg of 2007–08 UEFA Cup first qualifying round, Salihi netted in the last minute of regular time as Ried won 3–1 against Neftchi Baku.{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/match/300932--ried-vs-neftci/|title=Ried 3-1 Neftçi|publisher=UEFA|date=19 July 2007|access-date=20 October 2017}} He also scored his team's only goal in the returning leg as Ried was defeated 1–2 but progressed 4–3 on aggregate.{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/match/300969--neftci-vs-ried/|title=Neftçi 2-1 Ried |publisher=UEFA|date=2 August 2007|access-date=20 October 2017}}

In the 2007–08 season, Salihi enjoyed a decent season at the club, becoming the league's joint fourth top scorer along with Carsten Jancker of SV Mattersburg with 12 league goals. Despite this, SV Ried only finished seventh out of 10 in the league. In the 2008–09 season Salihi improved himself to 14 league goals at Ried, scoring one fourth of his team's goals.{{cite news|url=https://int.soccerway.com/national/austria/bundesliga/2008-2009/regular-season/r6696/|title=Summary - Bundesliga - Austria - Results, fixtures, tables and news|work=Soccerway|access-date=17 October 2015}} Ried placed fifth at the end of the season. On the 2009–10 season Salihi played 6 games which he score twist for his club but couple weeks later he was sold to Rapid Wien.

File:Hamdi Salihi.JPG

On 31 August 2009, Salihi completed a transfer to Austrian giants SK Rapid Wien by penning a three-year contract. On his debut match, brought from the bench and netted in the 83rd minute in the match against Red Bull Salzburg which saved Rapid from the loss as the match ended 2–2.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2009/09/13/austria/bundesliga/sk-rapid-wien/fc-red-bull-salzburg/785035/|title=Rapid Wien vs. Salzburg 2 – 2|publisher=Soccerway|date=13 September 2009|access-date=17 October 2015}}

At the end of the season Salihi scored 17 goals, 2 of which were from the previous club Ried making him the fifth leading goalscorer behind two of his teammates Steffen Hofmann, who was in first, and Nikica Jelavić who was tied in third. At the end of the season Rapid Wien was in third place three points behind champions Red Bull Salzburg and two points behind Austria Wien. Rapid Wien qualified for the 2010–11 UEFA Europa League Second qualifying round.

Salihi opened his scoring account in the 2010–11 season in the match versus SV Mattersburg on 22 August 2010.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2010/08/22/austria/bundesliga/sk-rapid-wien/sportverein-mattersburg/949309/|title=Rapid Wien vs. Mattersburg 2 – 0|publisher=Soccerway|date=22 August 2010|access-date=5 May 2018}} It was followed by a brace in the 3–2 home win against Kapfenberger SV on 25 September.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2010/09/25/austria/bundesliga/sk-rapid-wien/sv-stadtwerke-kapfenberg/949325/|title=Rapid Wien vs. Kapfenberger 3 – 2|publisher=Soccerway|date=25 September 2010|access-date=5 May 2018}} Then he scored in the match day 4 of UEFA Europa League Group L against CSKA Sofia as the match was lost.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/match/2003007--sk-rapid-vs-cska-sofia/|title=Rapid Wien 1-2 CSKA Sofia|publisher=UEFA|date=4 November 2010|access-date=5 May 2018}} Salihi produced a splendid performance later that month by netting four goals in the 5–0 home win against LASK Linz which lifted his tally to 7 seven goals. The goals were followed by the winner against Austria Wien which lifted the team in sixth position, 5 points short of "European zone".{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2010/11/28/austria/bundesliga/fk-austria-memphis-magna/sk-rapid-wien/949366/|title=Austria Wien vs. Rapid Wien 0 – 1|publisher=Soccerway|date=28 November 2010|access-date=5 May 2018}}

On 2 February 2012, Salihi signed with Major League Soccer side D.C. United as a designated player.{{cite news|url=http://www.shkodrasport.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1156:hamdi-salihi-firmos-ne-amerike-me-dc-united&catid=36:futboll&Itemid=1&lang=sq|title=Hamdi Salihi firmos në Amerikë me DC United|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi signs in America with DC United|publisher=Shkodra Sport|language=sq|date=2 February 2012|access-date=17 October 2015}} On 25 February 2012, he scored his first goal with DC United in a preseason match.

On 3 February 2013, Chinese Super League side Jiangsu Sainty official announced that they had signed Hamdi Salihi from D.C. United to replace injured Cristian Dănălache.[http://sports.163.com/13/0204/14/8MSIC2FC00051C89.html 舜天官方宣布国脚级外援加盟 顶替达10出战亚冠] {{in lang|zh}} On 26 February, he scored his first goal in his debut for Jiangsu, in a 5–1 away defeat against K League champions FC Seoul in the first round of 2013 AFC Champions League group stage match.[http://www.the-afc.com/en/acl-news/acl-all-news/25295-fcseoul-v-jiangsu-sainty260213.html FC Seoul 5-1 Jiangsu Sainty] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130301033519/http://www.the-afc.com/en/acl-news/acl-all-news/25295-fcseoul-v-jiangsu-sainty260213.html |date=1 March 2013 }} On 3 March, Salihi won his first title in China in the 2013 Chinese FA Super Cup which Jiangsu Sainty beat Super League and FA Cup winners Guangzhou Evergrande 2–1. He forced Guangzhou's Zhang Linpeng to score an own goal in the 18th minute. He then squeezed in his first goal in the league in another 2–1 win against the newly promoted Wuhan Zall with a low-fly header. He scored twice (a penalty kick and a last-minute equalizer) in the following home fixture, who witnessed a tough 2–2 tie of his team against Shanghai Shenxin. Hamdi Salihi scored again in 2013 AFC Champions League group stage against Japan team Vegalta Sendai in last match in Group E.

On 1 February 2014, Salihi joined Hapoel Ironi Acre on a free transfer by penning an 18-month contract.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama-sport.com/ballina/hamdi-salihi-shkon-ne-izrael-cani-huazohet-te-bari/|title=Merkatoja e kuqezinjve: Hamdi Salihi shkon në Izrael, kurse Edgar Çani huazohet te Bari|trans-title=Red&black's market: Hamdi Salihi goes in Israel, while Edgar Çani loaned at Bari|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|author=Jorgis Memo|date=1 February 2014|access-date=1 February 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221020646/http://www.panorama-sport.com/ballina/hamdi-salihi-shkon-ne-izrael-cani-huazohet-te-bari/|archive-date=21 February 2014}} He took squad number 14, and made his debut nine days later in the 2–1 home win over Hapoel Tel Aviv.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/salihi-debuton-me-fitore-fatsjelles-per-hapoel-akre/|title=Salihi debuton me fitore, fatsjellës për Hapoel Akre|trans-title=Salihi debuts with a win, lucky for Hapoel Acre|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=11 February 2014|access-date=11 February 2014}} He opened his scoring account on 15 February by scoring twice against Ironi Ramat Hasharon finished in the victory 4–3 coming from behind of 1–3 in the first half, where Salihi scored goal of 2–3 in the 53rd minute and an equalizing goal to make it 3–3 in 57th minute.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/cmendet-hamdi-salihi-dopiete-ne-izrael-perle-e-kapllanit-tjeter-sinjal-per-de-biazin/|title="Çmendet" Hamdi Salihi, dopietë në Izrael. Perlë e Kapllanit, tjetër sinjal për De Biazin|trans-title="Crazy" Hamdi Salihi, brace in Israel. A pearl from Kapllani, another signal for De Biasi|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|author=Leonard Karaj|date=16 February 2014|access-date=16 February 2014}} Later on 1 March 2014, Salihi scored an overhead bicycle kick inside the zone to beat goalkeeper Amir Edri for his side only goal in the home draw against Maccabi Haifa.{{cite news|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/03/01/israel/ligat-haal/hapoel-acre-fc/maccabi-haifa-fc/1513861/|title=Hapoel Acre vs. Maccabi Haifa - 1 March 2014|publisher=Soccerway|date=1 March 2014|access-date=30 July 2017}} The goal took international notoriety.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/perla-e-hamdi-salihit-ne-izrael-ben-xhiron-e-botes/|title=Perla e Hamdi Salihit në Izrael bën xhiron e botës|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi's pearl in Israel takes the world's tour|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=3 March 2014|access-date=3 March 2014}}

Then, he endured a 540-minute scoreless run across 6 matches, receiving critics from Israel's media.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/izrael-mediat-kryqezojne-salihin-540-minuta-pa-gol/|title=Izrael, mediat "kryqëzojnë" Salihin: 540 minuta pa gol|trans-title=Israel, media "crucify" Salihi: 540 minutes without goal|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=23 April 2014|access-date=30 July 2017}} He returned to scoring on 26 April by netting the matchwinner against Hapoel Haifa.{{cite news|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/04/26/israel/ligat-haal/hapoel-acre-fc/hapoel-haifa-fc/1672655/|title=Hapoel Acre vs. Hapoel Haifa 1 – 0|publisher=Soccerway|date=26 April 2014|access-date=30 July 2017}} Following that, on 3 May, Salihi netted the opener via penalty kick against Beitar Jerusalem finished in an away victory 0–2.{{cite news|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/05/03/israel/ligat-haal/beitar-jerusalem-fc/hapoel-acre-fc/1672661/|title=Beitar Jerusalem vs. Hapoel Acre 0 – 2|publisher=Soccerway|date=3 May 2014|access-date=3 May 2014}} This was followed by another penalty goal in the next match against Ironi Ramat Hasharon which ended in a 1–2 home loss.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/05/10/israel/ligat-haal/hapoel-acre-fc/ironi-ramat-hasharon-fc/1672669/|title=Hapoel Acre vs. Ironi Ramat HaSharon 1 – 2|publisher=Soccerway|date=10 May 2014|access-date=10 May 2014}} Salihi ended the season with 13 matches played on where scored in total 6 goals.

He started another season with Hapoel Acre, the 2014–15 season with the match valid for the 2014–15 Israel State Cup against Maccabi Haifa on 13 August 2014, finished in the 2–1 loss, where Salihi scored a goal as well, in the 27th minute the opening goal.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/08/13/israel/toto-cup-ligat-al/maccabi-haifa-fc/hapoel-acre-fc/1730095/|title=Maccabi Haifa vs. Hapoel Acre 2 – 1|publisher=Soccerway|date=13 August 2014|access-date=29 October 2017}} On 13 September 2014, he played his first league match in the 1–1 draw against Hapoel Haifa.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/09/13/israel/ligat-haal/hapoel-acre-fc/hapoel-haifa-fc/1804703/|title=Hapoel Acre vs. Hapoel Haifa 1 – 1|publisher=Soccerway|date=13 September 2014|access-date=29 October 2017}} On 13 December 2014, Salihi scored two important goals in the 2–2 away draw against the top table team, Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona. When his team were losing 2–0, he scored with a precise header in the 59th minute and then scored again in the 75th minute to make equal balanced everything from behind.{{cite web|url=http://asport.al/video-salihi-shenon-per-hapoel-e-merkaton/|title=(Video) Salihi shënon për Hapoel e merkaton|trans-title=(Video) Salihi scores for Hapoel and transfer market|publisher=aSport.al|language=sq|date=13 December 2014|access-date=29 October 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/12/13/israel/ligat-haal/hapoel-ironi-kiryat-shmona-fc/hapoel-acre-fc/1804867/|title=Ironi Kiryat Shmona vs. Hapoel Acre 2 – 2|publisher=Soccerway|date=13 December 2014|access-date=29 October 2017}}

On 2 February 2015, Salihi signed with Israeli club Hapoel Haifa becoming one of the highest paid players in the domestic league, with a salary of $20,000 per month.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/zyrtare-hamdi-salihi-kalon-te-hapoel-haifa-do-perfitoje-20-mije-dollare-ne-muaj/|title=Zyrtare, Hamdi Salihi kalon te Hapoel Haifa, do përfitojë 20 mijë dollarë në muaj|trans-title=Official, Hamdi Salihi passes to Hapoel Haifa, will earn $20,000 per month|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=3 February 2015|access-date=3 February 2015}} He closed recent disputes between manager Niki Vaknin and club managers, who then agreed and he signed for a year and a half. Salihi scored 4 goals in 10 games helping the club to ensure survival in the Israeli Premier League.

File:Loko skndrb 12.jpg

In July 2015, it was reported that Salihi joined Skënderbeu Korçë for their UEFA Champions League campaign, taking the vacant number 14.{{cite web|url=http://www.panorama-sport.com/godet-skenderbeu-salihi-per-champions-ne-korce-e-quajne-te-mbyllur-transferimin/|title=Godet Skënderbeu, Salihi për Champions, në Korçë e quajnë të mbyllur transferimin|trans-title=Skënderbeu strikes, Salihi for Champions, in Korçë the transfer is done|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=3 July 2015|access-date=3 July 2015}} The team coach Mirel Josa said that he was happy for the signing of Salihi, adding that "Salihi would be a great value if he stayed until the end of the season. I'm more than happy for this transfer".{{cite web|url=http://www.panorama-sport.com/josa-pres-shkembin-me-salihin-jemi-super-hamdiu-po-pershtatet-shpejt-e-dua-per-gjithe-sezonin/|title=Josa: Pres Shkëmbin, me Salihin jemi super. Po përshtatet shpejt, e dua për gjithë sezonin|trans-title=Josa: I'm waiting Shkëmbi, with Salihi we are super. He's fitting well, I want him for the whole season|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|author=Llazi Saro|date=5 July 2015|access-date=5 July 2015}}

He made his debut on 14 July 2015, in the first leg of second qualifying round of 2015–16 UEFA Champions League against Crusaders, scoring two goals for a crucial 4–1 victory.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2015/07/14/europe/uefa-champions-league/ks-skenderbeu-korce/crusaders-fc/2049101/|title=Skënderbeu Korçë vs. Crusaders 4 – 1|publisher=Soccerway|date=14 July 2015|access-date=21 May 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://telesport.al/skenderbeu-fiton-4-1-me-crusaders-korcaret-thuajse-ne-tur-iii/|title=Skënderbeu fiton 4-1 me Crusaders, korçarët thuajse në tur III|trans-title=Skënderbeu win 4-1 with Crusaders, almost in round III|publisher=Telesport.al|language=sq|date=14 July 2015|access-date=14 July 2015|archive-date=15 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715015600/http://telesport.al/skenderbeu-fiton-4-1-me-crusaders-korcaret-thuajse-ne-tur-iii/|url-status=dead}} In the second leg on 21 July, Salihi assisted the second goal of his team scored by Latifi, with Skënderbeu losing 3–2 but qualifying on aggregate 6–4.{{cite web|url=http://www.top-channel.tv/lajme/artikull.php?id=304672&ref=ngj|title=Skënderbeu kalon në turin e tretë të Champions League|trans-title=Skënderbeu passes in the third round of Champions League|publisher=Top Channel|language=sq|date=21 July 2015|access-date=21 July 2015}}

In the third round, the team was seeded with Moldavian side Milsami Orhei.{{Cite news|url=http://telesport.al/milsami-i-moldavise-rivali-i-skenderbeut-ne-turin-e-trete/|title=Milsami i Moldavisë, rivali i Skënderbeut në turin e tretë|trans-title=Moldova's Milsam, the rival of Skënderbeu in the third round|publisher=Telesport.al|language=sq|author=Eduard Ilnica|date=21 July 2015|access-date=6 December 2015|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304072607/http://telesport.al/milsami-i-moldavise-rivali-i-skenderbeut-ne-turin-e-trete/|url-status=dead}} In the first leg at Zimbru Stadium, Salihi was again the matchwinner by scoring twice, helping the team to prevail 2–0.{{Cite news|url=http://fax.al/read/news/849525/10003654/skenderbeu-fiton-milsamin-shume-prane-historise|title=Skënderbeu fiton Milsamin, shumë pranë historisë|trans-title=Skënderbeu wins Milsami, very close to history|publisher=Lajmi.net|language=sq|date=28 July 2015|access-date=28 July 2015}} In the returning leg at Elbasan Arena, Salihi was again in the scoresheet as Skënderbeu recorded another 2–0 win, advancing in play-off round with the aggregate 4–0.{{Cite news|url=http://www.tiranatimes.com/?p=122979|title=Skenderbeu becomes first Albanian club to reach Champions League play-off|publisher=Tirana Times|date=6 August 2015|access-date=6 August 2015}} By doing this, Skenderbeu become first Albanian club to reach the Champions League play-offs.

On 12 August, in the 2015 Albanian Supercup match against Laçi at Qemal Stafa Stadium, Salihi came on the field in place of the injured Arbër Abilaliaj and scored twice in an eventual 2–2 draw; Laçi, however, won the trophy after beating Skënderbeu 8–7 in the penalty shootouts, Salihi himself scored his attempt.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama-sport.com/laci-fiton-superkupen-e-shqiperise-mundin-skenderbeun-me-penallti/|title=Laçi fiton Superkupën e Shqipërisë, kurbinasit mundin Skënderbeun me penallti|trans-title=Laçi wins Albanian Supercup, "kurbinasit" defeats Skënderbeu on penalties|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=12 August 2015|access-date=15 August 2015}}

In play-off, Skënderbeu was easily defeated by Croatian giants Dinamo Zagreb with the aggregate 6–2. Skënderbeu secured the Europa League group stage, becoming first Albanian club to reach that. After the end of the team's Champions League campaign, Salihi was second top goalscorer with five goals, two behind from Maccabi Tel Aviv's Eran Zahavi.{{Cite news|url=http://telesport.al/hamdi-salihi-golashenuesi-mei-mire-i-liges-se-kampioneve/|title=Hamdi Salihi, golashënuesi më i mirë i Ligës së Kampioneve|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi, top goalscorer of Champions League|publisher=Telesport.al|language=sq|author=Alfred Lleshi|date=3 August 2015|access-date=3 August 2015|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304074857/http://telesport.al/hamdi-salihi-golashenuesi-mei-mire-i-liges-se-kampioneve/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2016/statistics/round=2000630/clubs/kind=goals/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150725043041/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2016/statistics/round=2000630/clubs/kind=goals/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=25 July 2015|title=Statistics — Qualifying phase — Team statistics — Goals|publisher=UEFA|access-date=26 August 2015}} After the end of the club's UEFA Champions League campaign, the club itself confirmed via its official Facebook page that Salihi would remain in the club for the rest of 2015–16 season.{{cite news|url=http://www.lapsi.al/sport/2015/08/31/zyrtare-hamdi-salihi-q%C3%ABndron-n%C3%AB-kor%C3%A7%C3%AB#.V43sP9J97cs|title=Zyrtare/ Hamdi Salihi qëndron në Korçë|trans-title=Official/ Hamdi Salihi stays in Korçë|publisher=Lapsi.al|language=sq|date=31 August 2015|access-date=31 August 2015}}{{Dead link|date=January 2020 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

Salihi made his league debut on 9 September in the 1–0 away win against Vllaznia Shkodër, suffering an early injury and was subbed off in the 19th minute.{{cite news|url=http://telesport.al/skenderbeut-i-mjafton-nje-gol-ndaj-vllaznise-demtohet-salihi/|title=Skënderbeut i mjafton një gol ndaj Vllaznisë, dëmtohet Salihi|trans-title=Skënderbeu it suffices a goal against Vllaznia, Salihi injured|publisher=Telesport.al|language=sq|author=Eduard Ilnica|date=9 September 2015|access-date=21 May 2016}} However, he was recovered in time for the Europa League group stage match against Beşiktaş,{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/josa-mund-te-buzeqesh-rikuperohet-salihi/|title=Josa mund të buzëqeshë, riaftësohet Salihi|trans-title=Josa can smile, Salihi recurepared|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Sotir Kora|date=14 September 2015|access-date=21 May 2016}} where he played in the last 20 minutes of a 0–1 home defeat.{{cite news|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2015/09/17/europe/uefa-cup/ks-skenderbeu-korce/besiktas-jk/2147225/|title=Skënderbeu Korçë vs. Beşiktaş 0 – 1|publisher=Soccerway|date=17 September 2015|access-date=21 May 2016}} Salihi scored his first league goal of the season on 26 September in a 4–1 away win against Bylis Ballsh, netting the third of the match.{{cite news|url=http://www.gazeta-shqip.com/lajme/2015/09/27/skenderbeu-dhe-partizani-nisin-duelin-per-kreun/|title=Skënderbeu dhe Partizani nisin duelin për kreun|trans-title=Skënderbeu and Partizani starts the duel for the lead|publisher=Gazeta Shqip|language=sq|author=Erion Abule|date=27 September 2015|access-date=21 May 2016}}

Later on 5 October, Salihi scored a brace in Skënderbeu's 3–0 defeat of Laçi, including one goal with penalty.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/video-skenderbeu-nuk-njeh-rivale-mposht-3-0-lacin/|title=Video / Skënderbeu nuk njeh rivalë, mposht 3-0 Laçin|trans-title=Video / Skënderbeu doesn't know rivals, defeats 3-0 Laçi|publisher=Panorama.com.al|language=sq|date=5 October 2015|access-date=5 October 2015}} Twenty days later, in the 2–1 away defeat to Partizani Tirana, Salihi scored with a bicycle kick from the penalty area in the eighth minute, gaining international notoriety.{{cite news|url=http://telesport.al/partizani-mposht-skenderbeun-tani-i-vetem-ne-krye/|title=Partizani mposht Skënderbeun, tani i vetëm në krye|trans-title=Partizani defeats Skënderbeu, now lonely on the lead|publisher=Telesport.al|language=sq|author=Alfred Lleshi|date=25 October 2015|access-date=25 October 2015}}{{cite news|url=http://opinion.al/ai-eshte-hamdi-salihi-supergol-ne-superligen-shqiptare/|title="La Gazzeta Dello Sport": "Ai është Hamdi Salihi, supergol në Superligën Shqiptare"|trans-title="La Gazzeta Dello Sport": "He is Hamdi Salihi, supergoal in Albanian Superliga"|publisher=Opinion.al|language=sq|date=25 October 2015|access-date=25 October 2015}} Salihi started November with a brace in team's 3–1 home victory against his former side Vllaznia Shkodër on eighth, taking his tally up to 8 goals, overtaking Xhevahir Sukaj in the process.{{cite news|url=http://telesport.al/skenderbeu-fiton-3-1-ndaj-vllaznise-salihi-kalon-sukajn-si-golashenues/|title=Skënderbeu fiton 3-1 ndaj Vllaznisë. Salihi kalon Sukajn si golashënues|trans-title=Skënderbeu win 3-0 over Vllaznia. Salihi overtakes Sukaj as goalscorer|publisher=Telesport.al|language=sq|author=Gjergj Kola|date=8 November 2015|access-date=8 November 2015}} On the last day of November, Salihi scored his tenth league goal in the 2–1 away win against Tirana in the inaugural match in the newly renovated Selman Stërmasi Stadium.{{cite news|url=http://sportekspres.com/skenderbeu-i-prish-festen-tiranes/|title=Skënderbeu i prish festën Tiranës|trans-title=Skënderbeu runs Tirana's party|publisher=Sport Ekspres|language=sq|date=1 December 2015|access-date=15 December 2015|archive-date=22 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222163206/http://sportekspres.com/skenderbeu-i-prish-festen-tiranes/|url-status=dead}}

On 20 December, during the league match against the title rivals of Partizani Tirana, Salihi broke his hand in a collision with the goalkeeper Alban Hoxha in the 53rd minute of the match.{{cite news|url=http://sport.oranews.tv/demtohet-salihi-golashenuesi-me-i-mire-thyen-doren/|title=Dëmtohet Salihi, golashënuesi më i mirë thyen dorën|trans-title=Salihi injured, top goalscorer breaks the hand|publisher=Ora Sport|language=sq|date=20 December 2015|access-date=20 December 2015}} It was later reported that Salihi would go to Austria for further examinations and he would be out for one month. Salihi kicked off 2016 on 7 February by scoring twice in the 3–1 home win against the rivals Kukësi, placing Skënderbeu two points clear at the top.{{cite news|url=http://telesport.al/salihi-dhe-xhejms-likujdojne-kukesin-kampionet-rikthehen-ne-krye/|title=Salihi dhe Xhejms likujdojnë Kukësin, kampionët rikthehen në krye|trans-title=Salihi and James liquidate Kukësi, champions back on lead|publisher=Telesport.al|language=sq|author=Alfred Lleshi|date=7 February 2016|access-date=7 February 2016|archive-date=29 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729191731/http://telesport.al/salihi-dhe-xhejms-likujdojne-kukesin-kampionet-rikthehen-ne-krye/|url-status=dead}} This was followed by another brace six days later against Tërbuni Pukë in a 3–1 away win.{{cite news|url=https://botasot.info/sporti/514454/skenderbeu-ben-detyren-mund-terbunin/|title=Skënderbeu bën detyrën, mund Tërbunin|trans-title=Skënderbeu does the task, defeats Tërbuni|publisher=Botasot.info|language=sq|date=13 February 2016|access-date=13 February 2016}} On 22 February, Salihi scored the matchwinner via e penalty kick against Tirana, keeping the team in the first place in the league.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama-sport.com/vendos-nje-penallti-ne-korce-skenderbeu-thyen-tiranen/|title=Video / Vendos një penallti në Korçë, Skënderbeu thyen Tiranën|trans-title=Video / A penalty decides in Korçë, Skënderbeu breaks Tirana|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=22 February 2016|access-date=24 February 2016}}

On 20 March, Salihi scored his sixth Albanian Superliga hat-trick in team's 5–1 home defeat of Flamurtari Vlorë, taking his tally up to 23 league goals.{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/super-salihi-skenderbeu-shkaterron-flamurtarin/|title=Super Salihi, Skënderbeu shkatërron Flamurtarin|trans-title=Super Salihi, Skënderbeu destroys Flamurtari|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Sotir Kora|date=20 March 2016|access-date=20 March 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160323180124/http://www.supersport.al/super-salihi-skenderbeu-shkaterron-flamurtarin/|archive-date=23 March 2016}} In April and May, Salihi went to score three more goals, concluding the season with 27 league goals, as Skënderbeu won the title for the sixth year in a row.{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/skenderbeu-kampion-dhimbje-dhe-lote-per-partizanin/|title=Skënderbeu kampion! Dhimbje e lotë për Partizanin|trans-title=Skënderbeu champion! Pain and tears for Partizani|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Olsi Karagjozi|date=18 May 2016|access-date=17 July 2016}} He finished the season with 35 goals from 42 match across all competitions, setting a new personal best. Salihi ended the season winning the Albanian Superliga Golden Boot for the second time, finishing six goals ahead of Xhevahir Sukaj with 21 goals.{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/kepuca-e-arte-prone-e-hamdi-salihit/|title=Këpuca e Artë, "pronë" e Hamdi Salihit|trans-title=Golden Boot, "property" of Hamdi Salihi|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Elvis Rexha|date=16 May 2016|access-date=16 May 2016|archive-date=21 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160521105128/http://www.supersport.al/kepuca-e-arte-prone-e-hamdi-salihit/|url-status=dead}}

Salihi did not play any European football match due to Skënderbeu ban over match-fixing allegations.{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.co.uk/albania/story/2887393/albanias-kf-skenderbeu-banned-from-europe-for-match-fixing|title=Albania's KF Skenderbeu banned from Europe for match-fixing|publisher=ESPN FC|agency=Associated Press|date=6 June 2016|access-date=10 March 2017}} He started the season by playing full-90 minutes in the 2016 Albanian Supercup match against Kukësi which ended in a 3–1 defeat at Selman Stërmasi Stadium.{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/kukesi-fiton-superkupen-e-shaqiperise/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160826013058/http://www.supersport.al/kukesi-fiton-superkupen-e-shaqiperise/|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 August 2016|title=Kukësi fiton Superkupën e Shqipërisë|trans-title=Kukësi wins Albanian Supercup|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Rinald Bregasi|date=24 August 2016|access-date=25 August 2016}} Salihi started the league by scoring a brace in the opening match day against Flamurtari Vlorë as Skënderbeu won 2–1 at home.{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/skenderbeu-e-nis-me-fitore-nen-shenjen-e-salihit/|title=Skënderbeu, start nën shenjën e Salihit|trans-title=Skënderbeu, start on Salihi's mark|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Erald Kodheli|date=7 September 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-date=10 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160910073514/http://www.supersport.al/skenderbeu-e-nis-me-fitore-nen-shenjen-e-salihit/|url-status=dead}} This was followed by another strike in the second match day at newly promoted Korabi Peshkopi for a 2–0 win.{{cite news|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/09/11/albania/super-league/ks-korabi-peshkop-/ks-skenderbeu-korce/2342577/|title=Korabi Peshkopi vs. Skënderbeu Korçë 0 – 2|publisher=Soccerway|date=11 September 2016|access-date=29 July 2017}} On 1 October, Salihi scored another brace to take his tally up to 5 goals as Skënderbeu won against Vllaznia Shkodër to extend the league lead to 5 points.{{cite news|url=http://sport.oranews.tv/skenderbeu-fiton-lehtesisht-3-0-ne-korce/|title=Skënderbeu fiton lehtësisht 3-0 në Korçë|trans-title=Skënderbeu easily wins 3-0 in Korçë|publisher=Ora Sport|language=sq|date=1 October 2016|access-date=1 October 2016|archive-date=20 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220080801/http://sport.oranews.tv/skenderbeu-fiton-lehtesisht-3-0-ne-korce/|url-status=dead}}

In December 2016, Salihi was named Albanian Footballer of the Year, becoming the third Skënderbeu player to win it.{{cite news|url=http://telesport.al/hamdi-salihi-zgjidhet-lojtari-vitit/|title=Hamdi Salihi zgjidhet lojtari i vitit|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi chosen player of the year|publisher=Telesport.al|language=sq|author=Eduard Ilnica|date=19 December 2016|access-date=29 January 2017|archive-date=2 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202070317/http://telesport.al/hamdi-salihi-zgjidhet-lojtari-vitit/|url-status=dead}}

On 20 May 2017, during the decisive match against Kukësi for the championship, Salihi along with other teammates were included in a massive brawl with referee Enea Jorgji.{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/kur-fatin-e-vendos-arbitri/|title=Kur fatin e vendos arbitri|trans-title=When the referee decides the fate|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Rinald Bregasi|date=21 May 2017|access-date=6 July 2017|archive-date=29 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729174727/http://www.supersport.al/kur-fatin-e-vendos-arbitri/|url-status=dead}} Salihi notably was caught tearing the referee's red card and insulting him in the process, however, he was not seen by the referee.{{cite news|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/lajmi-i-fundit-nderpritet-ndeshja-kukesi-skenderbeu-sulmohet-gjyqtari-salihi-i-gris-kartonin-e-kuq/|title=Skandal në gjykimin te Kukësi-Skënderbeu. Salihi gris kartonin e kuq (Shikoni videon)|trans-title=Scandal in the judgement of Kukësi-Skënderbeu. Salihi torn the red card (Watch the video)|publisher=Gazeta Panorama|language=sq|date=21 May 2017|access-date=21 May 2017}} Everything started in the 59th minute when the referee didn't give a clear penalty to Skënderbeu after a foul inside the zone on Liridon Latifi, instead booking him for diving. Skënderbeu eventually were defeated 2–0 at Zeqir Ymeri Stadium, meaning that they have failed to win the championship for the first time in six years.{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/75736-2/|title=Kukësi, kampion për herë të parë në histori|trans-title=Kukësi, champion for the first time in history|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|date=20 May 2017|access-date=6 July 2017|archive-date=23 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170523021051/http://www.supersport.al/75736-2/|url-status=dead}} Disciplinary Committee of AFA handed him a ten-game ban for all domestic competitions.{{cite news|url=http://www.kosovapress.com/sq/sport/salihi-pezullohet-me-10-ndeshje-osmani-me-8-115955/|title=Salihi pezullohet me 10 ndeshje, Osmani me 8|trans-title=Salihi suspended with 10 matches, Osmani with 8|publisher=Kosova Press|language=sq|date=20 May 2017|access-date=6 July 2017}}

On 30 June 2017, following a season full of ups and down on individual aspect, also adding the ban, Salihi officially left Skënderbeu after two seasons.{{cite news|url=http://www.kohajone.com/2017/06/30/nenshkruan-me-klubin-e-ri-salihi-largohet-nga-skenderbeu/|title=Nënshkruan me klubin e ri, Salihi largohet nga Skënderbeu|trans-title=Signs with the new club, Salihi leaves Skënderbeu|publisher=Koha Jone|language=sq|date=30 June 2017|access-date=29 July 2017}} During his time in Korçë, he played 80 matches, including 63 in league, 5 in cup, 2 in supercup and 10 in European competitions, scoring 51 goals, including 42 in league, 2 in cup, 2 in supercup and 5 in European competitions.

On 30 June 2017, Salihi completed a transfer to Austrian First League club Wiener Neustadt for an undisclosed fee.{{cite news|url=http://www.gazetatema.net/2017/06/30/hamndi-salihi-rikthehet-ne-austri-firmos-me-viener-nojshtad/|title=Hamdi Salihi rikthehet në Austri, firmos me Viener Nojshtad|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi returns in Austria, signs for Wiener Neustadt|publisher=Gazeta Tema|language=sq|date=30 June 2017|access-date=30 July 2017}} The transfer was made official by the club only on 21 July, after he was cleared from his 10-match ban, which could have been a factor to cancel the agreement between the parties.{{cite news|url=https://sportekspres.com/salihi-zyrtarizohet-ne-austri-debuton-kunder-ish-ekipit-te-vet/|title=Salihi zyrtarizohet në Austri, debuton kundër ish-ekipit të vet|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi formalized in Austria, will debut against his former-team|publisher=Sport Ekspres|language=sq|date=21 July 2017|access-date=30 July 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://sportekspres.com/salihit-i-ulet-denimi-por-ne-austri-i-hapen-probleme/|title=Salihit i ulet dënimi, por në Austri i hapen probleme!|trans-title=Salihi's ban is reduced, but there are new problems in Austria!|publisher=Sport Ekspres|language=sq|date=4 July 2017|access-date=30 July 2017}}

Salihi made his first appearance on the same day by playing 70 minutes in a 1–0 away win against Ried, making a good overall appearance.{{cite news|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/07/21/austria/1-liga/sv-josko-ried/fc-magna-wiener-neustadt/2472016/|title=Ried vs. Wiener Neustadt 0 – 1|publisher=Soccerway|date=21 July 2017|access-date=30 July 2017}} His first score-sheet contributions came in his second ever appearance for the club seven days later, scoring a header just inside the zone as Wiener Neustadt recorded a 4–0 home win over Blau-Weiß Linz to take the championship lead.{{cite news|url=http://www.supersport.al/hamdi-salihi/|title=Hamdi Salihi protagonist në fitoren e Wiener Neustadt|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi protagonist in Wiener Neustadt's win|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Andi Deçka|date=29 July 2017|access-date=30 July 2017}} Later on 20 October, Salihi scored all four goals as Wiener Neustadt recorded a 4–2 home win over Kapfenberger SV to stay top of league tied on points with Ried.{{cite news|url=http://sportekspres.com/salihi-per-oskar-4-gola-dhe-kryesim-ne-austri/|title=Salihi për "Oskar", 4 gola dhe kryesim në Austri|trans-title=Salihi for “Oscar”, 4 goals and lead in Austria|publisher=Sport Ekspres|language=sq|date=20 October 2017|access-date=21 October 2017}} Salihi reached double figures and took the lead of goalscoring table with 13 goals; it was his second "poker" in career, first being in November 2010.{{cite news|url=http://sportekspres.com/salihi-i-ruan-rekordet-per-ne-austri-kater-gola-thjesht-madheshtore/|title=Salihi i ruan rekordet për në Austri: Katër gola, thjesht madhështore|trans-title=Salihi saves the records for Austria: Four goals, just magnificent|publisher=Sport Ekspres|language=sq|date=21 October 2017|access-date=21 October 2017}} The feat was followed by the winner against Wattens in the next match day which put Wiener Neustadt top of the table.{{cite web|url=http://sportekspres.com/salihi-nuk-ndalet-neushtad-ne-krye/|title=Salihi nuk ndalet, Nojshtadi në krye!|trans-title=Salihi doesn't stop, Neustadt on lead|publisher=Sport Ekspres|language=sq|date=31 October 2017|access-date=31 October 2017}}

The team, however, couldn't keep up the good results in the second part of the season, eventually falling to fourth place. On 4 May 2018, Salihi netted his 20th goal of the season with a 96th minute free-kick to give Neustadt the win over Floridsdorfer AC and to keep their hopes for a top flight spot alive.{{cite web|url=http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/video-salihi-hero-ne-austri-shenon-super-gola-nga-goditja-e-denimit-ne-minuten-e-96-te/|title=Video / Salihi "hero" në Austri, shënon super gol nga goditja e dënimit në minutën e 96-të|trans-title=Video / Salihi “hero” in Austria, scores a super goal from free-kick in 96th minute|publisher=Panorama Sport|language=sq|date=4 May 2018|access-date=5 May 2018}} He finished the regular campaign as joint-top scorer along with Ried's Seifedin Chabbi, bagging 22 goals from 33 appearances, all of them as starter, as Wiener Neustadt achieved a play-off spot by finishing third in the championship with 62 points.{{cite web|url=http://sportekspres.com/salihi-arrin-objektivin-minimal-nje-ndeshje-larg-endrres/|title=Salihi arrin objektivin minimal, një ndeshje larg ëndrrës|trans-title=Salihi reaches the minimal goal, one match away from the dream|publisher=Sport Ekspres|language=sq|date=25 May 2018|access-date=26 May 2018}}

Salihi was named club captain ahead of 2018–19 season.{{cite web|url=http://www.shkodrasport.com/2018/07/17/hamdi-salihi-gradohet-kapiten-ne-austri-e-nis-me-dy-gola-qe-ne-ndeshjen-e-pare/|title=Hamdi Salihi "gradohet" kapiten në Austri. E nis me dy gola që në ndeshjen e parë|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi “promoted” captain in Austria. Starts with two goals in the first match|publisher=Shkodra Sport|language=sq|date=17 July 2018|access-date=17 August 2018|archive-date=28 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180828065232/http://www.shkodrasport.com/2018/07/17/hamdi-salihi-gradohet-kapiten-ne-austri-e-nis-me-dy-gola-qe-ne-ndeshjen-e-pare/|url-status=dead}} On 28 March 2019, Salihi announced that the league game against Wacker Innsbruck two days later would be the last of his career, adding that he would retire afterwards.{{cite web|url=https://www.supersport.al/salihi-pershpejton-fundin-e-karrieres-te-shtunen-var-kepucet-ne-gozhde/|title=Salihi përshpejton fundin e karrierës, të shtunën var këpucët në gozhdë!|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi accelerates the end of his career, on saturday will hang the boots in nail!|publisher=SuperSport Albania|language=sq|author=Sotir Kora|date=28 March 2019|access-date=30 March 2019}} He played as starter for 52 minutes, unable to prevent a 2–1 home loss.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2019/03/30/austria/1-liga/fc-magna-wiener-neustadt/fc-wacker-innsbruck-ii/2802821/|title=Wiener Neustadt vs. Wacker Innsbruck II 1 – 2|publisher=Soccerway|date=30 March 2019|access-date=30 March 2019}}

Salihi scored his first goal for the Albania national team in a 3–0 win over Malta on 23 August 2007.{{cite news|url=http://eu-football.info/_match.php?id=26533|title=Football Match: 22.08.2007 Albania v Malta|publisher=EU-Football.info|date=23 August 2007|access-date=25 October 2015}} He was sent in the game on the 22nd minute replacing Erjon Bogdani. Only after 12 minutes played, The Bomber took advantage of a mistake made by the Maltese goalie and scored. Salihi also scored the advantage goal in the unofficial friendly against Milan for the Taçi Oil Cup; the match eventually ended 3–3 with Albania losing on penalty shootouts.{{cite news|url=http://noa.al/lajmi/2009/05/55.html|title=Trofeu "Taçi Oil", Milan mund Shqipërinë vetëm me penallti|trans-title=Trophy "Taci Oil", Milan defeats Albania only on penalties|publisher=Noa.al|language=sq|date=13 May 2009|access-date=27 December 2016}}

The second international goal of Salihi came against Sweden, when he scored for Albania in the last match of the 2010 World Cup qualifiers, where Albania lost 4–1 at Råsunda Stadium.{{cite news|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2009/10/14/europe/wc-qualifying-europe/sweden/albania/705802/|title=Sweden vs. Albania 4 – 1|publisher=Soccerway|date=14 October 2009|access-date=25 October 2015}} Neither Sweden or Albania qualified for the 2010 World Cup.

For the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, new coach Gianni De Biasi had introduced young forwards into the senior national team to create more competition for places in the first team. Young players forwards such as Edgar Çani, Armando Sadiku and Bekim Balaj provided competition for the established and mature internationals which were Salihi and Erjon Bogdani. In opening group game of the qualifiers, Albania took on Cyprus at the Qemal Stafa Stadium in Tirana, Salihi started the game upfront alongside 21-year-old Armando Sadiku who was making his competitive debut, having featured in three friendly games prior to the game against Cyprus. The pair combined well in the early stages and Salihi had a good chance to score in the first half, before Sadiku opened the scoring in the 36th minute. The game ended in a 3–1 win for Albania following goals from substitutes Edgar Çani and Erjon Bogdani.{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/season=2014/matches/round=2000294/match=2008634/postmatch/report/index.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130412024934/http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/season=2014/matches/round=2000294/match=2008634/postmatch/report/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=12 April 2013|title=FIFA World Cup 2014 - Albania-Cyprus – UEFA.com|work=UEFA.com}}{{cite web|url=http://www1.skysports.com/news/11095/8060698/|title=WCQ Group E round-up|work=Sky Sports}}

On 23 March 2013, Albania played against Norway away at a freezing Ullevaal Stadion in a crucial encounter for both sides. Salihi started the game upfront with Çani and immediately created problems for the Norwegians with a shot on target from an overhead kick in the third minute. He scored the only goal of the game in the 67th minute following a clever run inside the box to put the ball in the right hand corner of the net. The win stunned the hosts to the delight of the away fans who almost outnumbered the home fans. This moved Albania into joint second place in the group 9 points, ahead of Norway who were left on 7 points.{{cite web|url=http://au.eurosport.com/football/world-cup/2014/norway-stunned-by-albania_sto3679386/story.shtml|title=Norway stunned by Albania|publisher=Eurosport Australia|date=23 March 2013|access-date=23 March 2013}}{{cite web|url=http://www.newsinenglish.no/2013/03/22/ice-cold-albanians-stun-drillos/|title=Ice-cold Albanians stun 'Drillos'|publisher=newsinenglish.no|date=23 March 2013|access-date=23 March 2013}}{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/season=2014/matches/round=2000294/match=2008649/postmatch/report/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130326004958/http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/season=2014/matches/round=2000294/match=2008649/postmatch/report/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 March 2013|title=FIFA World Cup 2014 - Norway-Albania – UEFA.com|publisher=UEFA.com}} Salihi scored his second goal of the campaign on 11 October 2013 in the penultimate match against Switzerland in the 89th minute with a penalty to send the score 2–1, where the game ended with the same score as well.{{cite web|title=2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™: Albania-Switzerland - Report|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=258374/match=300182254/report.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519014711/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=258374/match=300182254/report.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=19 May 2014|website=FIFA.com|publisher=FIFA|access-date=30 October 2017}} Albania were eliminated from the qualifiers ranking in the fifth place with 11 points, 1 less than Norway, 2 less than Slovenia.[https://web.archive.org/web/20111205013154/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/preliminaries/europe/matches/group=258386/index.html Results and schedule for UEFA Group E (FIFA.com version)] FIFA.com[https://archive.today/20130105054855/http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/season=2014/standings/round=2000294/group=2001660/index.html Results and schedule for UEFA Group E (UEFA.com version)] UEFA.com

Salihi was called up regularly by the coach Gianni De Biasi in the team's successful UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} He was, however, used only once in the whole qualifiers, playing the last 21 minutes of the 2–1 home win against Armenia in Elbasan Arena.{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/european-qualifiers/news/0253-0d7ff0cb1329-b59407439762-1000--albania-head-off-armenia-threat/|title=Albania head off Armenia threat|publisher=UEFA.com|date=29 March 2015|access-date=9 July 2015}} He was not called up in the provisional 27-man UEFA Euro 2016 squad.{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/history/news/0253-0d813edc940a-8dc9dd59ba20-1000--de-biasi-leaves-out-albanian-top-scorer-salihi/|title=De Biasi leaves out Albanian top scorer Salihi|publisher=UEFA.com|author=Fatjon Pandovski|date=21 May 2016|access-date=19 July 2015}}{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/football/no-place-for-hamdi-salihi-in-albania-s-preliminary-euro-2016-squad/story-791OpJ9iVBEfviTD4Ntt2L.html|title=No place for Hamdi Salihi in Albania's preliminary Euro 2016 squad|publisher=Hindustan Times|author=Fatjon Pandovski|date=22 May 2016|access-date=19 July 2015}} This led him to consider the retirement from international football.{{cite news|url=http://www.syri.net/2016/05/24/hamdi-salihi-kercenon-do-terhiqem-nga-kombetarja/|title=Hamdi Salihi kërcënon: Do tërhiqem nga Kombëtarja|trans-title=Hamdi Salihi threatens: I'm gonna retire from the national team|publisher=Syri.net|language=sq|date=24 May 2015|access-date=9 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160527072549/http://www.syri.net/2016/05/24/hamdi-salihi-kercenon-do-terhiqem-nga-kombetarja/|archive-date=27 May 2016|url-status=dead}}

On 2 May 2019, Salihi was appointed assistant manager of SC Wiener Neustadt, where he at the time also was playing for.[https://www.90minuten.at/de/red/presseschau/kurzmeldungen-vereine-verbaende-sportler/2019/mai/sc-wiener-neustadt-hat-ein-neues-trainerteam/ SC Wiener Neustadt hat ein neues Trainerteam], 90minuten.at, 2 May 2019 Ahead of the 2019–20 season, he was appointed assistant manager of Edoardo Reja at the Albania national team.[http://www.panorama.com.al/sport/fat-te-punoj-me-rejan-hamdi-salihi-ju-tregoj-trajnerin-e-ri-te-kombetares/ “Fat të punoj me Rejan”, Hamdi Salihi: Ju tregoj trajnerin e ri të Kombëtares], panorama.com.al, 24 May 2019

{{Reflist|group=lower-alpha}}

:Scores and results list Albania's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Salihi goal.

Vllaznia Shkodër

• Albanian Superliga: runner-up 2002–03

Tirana

• Albanian Superliga: 2006–07; runner-up 2005–06
• Albanian Cup: 2005–06
• Albanian Supercup: 2005, 2006

SV Ried

• Austrian Bundesliga: runner-up 2006–07

Jiangsu Sainty

• Chinese FA Super Cup: 2013

Skënderbeu Korçë

• Albanian Superliga: 2015–16
• Albanian Supercup: runner-up 2016

Individual

• Albanian Superliga Golden Boot: 2005–06, 2015–16
• Albanian Footballer of the Year: 2016

{{Reflist|30em}}

{{Commons category}}

• {{UEFA player|66662}}
• {{MLS player|hamdi-salihi}}
• {{NFT player|14776}}
• [http://rapidarchiv.at/spieler/salihi_hamdi.html Hamdi Salihi profile] at Rapidarchiv.at
• {{Soccerway|hamdi-salihi/11009}}

{{Navboxes

|title = Awards

|bg = gold

|fg = navy

|list1 =

{{Albanian Superliga top scorers}}

{{Albanian Footballer of the Year}}

{{2015–16 Albanian Superliga Team of the Year}}

{{Austrian Football First League top scorers}}

}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Salihi, Hamdi}}

Category:1984 births

Category:Living people

Category:Footballers from Shkodër

Category:Albanian men's footballers

Category:21st-century Albanian sportsmen

Category:Men's association football forwards

Category:KF Vllaznia Shkodër players

Category:Panionios F.C. players

Category:KF Tirana players

Category:SV Ried players

Category:SK Rapid Wien players

Category:D.C. United players

Category:Jiangsu F.C. players

Category:Hapoel Acre F.C. players

Category:Hapoel Haifa F.C. players

Category:KF Skënderbeu Korçë players

Category:1. Wiener Neustädter SC players

Category:Kategoria Superiore players

Category:Super League Greece players

Category:Austrian Football Bundesliga players

Category:2. Liga (Austria) players

Category:Major League Soccer players

Category:Designated Players (MLS)

Category:Chinese Super League players

Category:Israeli Premier League players

Category:Albania men's international footballers

Category:Albanian expatriate men's footballers

Category:Albanian expatriate sportspeople in Greece

Category:Albanian expatriate sportspeople in Austria

Category:Albanian expatriate sportspeople in the United States

Category:Albanian expatriate sportspeople in China

Category:Albanian expatriate sportspeople in Israel

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Greece

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Austria

Category:Expatriate men's soccer players in the United States

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in China

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Israel