🇨🇭 Xhaka Left Out of Switzerland Squad
Switzerland have omitted captain Granit Xhaka from their squad for the current international break amid the fallout from a case involving a fake COVID-19 vaccination certificate obtained during the pandemic.
Xhaka’s omission came as Switzerland announced their squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures. The midfielder also published a statement on Instagram in which he acknowledged his mistake and apologized for his actions.
📢 Xhaka Admits Mistake and Apologizes
Granit Xhaka said he made the wrong decision during the COVID-19 pandemic, explaining that he had developed a deep lack of trust in the vaccine and chose to obtain a vaccination certificate instead of addressing his concerns through official channels.
The player said he now clearly recognizes that the decision was wrong and accepted responsibility for his actions, while confirming that he is prepared to cooperate fully with the relevant authorities.
The admission comes as the incident has developed into a legal matter, with investigations continuing in Switzerland.
⚖️ Investigation Underway in Lucerne
According to Swiss media reports, the Lucerne public prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation connected to the vaccination certificate issue, with Xhaka reportedly expected to be questioned by authorities next month.
Reports also indicated that the doctor from whom Xhaka allegedly obtained the certificate is himself under investigation by Swiss authorities.
The developments have therefore created a legal issue surrounding the Switzerland captain as the authorities continue their examination of the case.
🚫 Xhaka to Miss Nations League Fixtures
The Swiss Football Association confirmed that Xhaka will miss Switzerland’s upcoming Nations League matches against North Macedonia, Scotland and Slovenia, despite his importance to the national team.
Xhaka had recently captained Switzerland to the quarter-finals of the World Cup this summer, further highlighting his importance and experience within the squad.
🗣️ Swiss Federation Explains the Decision
Swiss Football Association president Peter Knäbel explained that the decision for Xhaka to miss the current camp was reached jointly by the player and the federation.
He said the interests of the team require Switzerland to complete the current training camp without Xhaka, while the situation will be reassessed after the current international period.
The federation has also left open the possibility of Xhaka returning to international duty during the November international window, depending on developments surrounding the case and the discussions that follow.
⭐ Switzerland’s Most-Capped Player
Granit Xhaka holds the record for the most international appearances for Switzerland, having reached 152 caps with the national team.
His absence from the current camp is therefore particularly notable, given his longstanding role as one of Switzerland’s key leaders and most experienced players.
🏆 Switzerland Face Four Nations League Matches
Switzerland are scheduled to play four Nations League matches during the current international window.
They begin away against North Macedonia on September 26, followed by another away match against Scotland on September 29.
Switzerland then host Slovenia on October 3, before facing North Macedonia again at home on October 6.
With Xhaka unavailable, Switzerland’s coaching staff will have to rely on the rest of the squad throughout the four-match sequence, while the midfielder’s potential return remains linked to developments in his legal case and the federation’s assessment.
