Switzerland will enter its next four Nations League fixtures without captain Granit Xhaka after the midfielder admitted he had previously obtained a false Covid-19 vaccination certificate.
The absence was agreed jointly by Xhaka and the Swiss Football Association following a meeting between the player and the federation’s leadership. For the national side, it removes its captain from a run of competitive matches at a sensitive point in the international calendar.
Quick facts
- Granit Xhaka will miss Switzerland’s next four Nations League matches.
- The Switzerland captain acknowledged using a false Covid-19 vaccination certificate in the past.
- Lucerne prosecutors are investigating the matter.
- Xhaka said he will cooperate fully with the authorities.
- The suspension was settled by mutual agreement with the Swiss Football Association.
In a statement published on Instagram, Xhaka said concerns over Covid-19 vaccination had left him fearful and deeply distrustful of the vaccine at the time.
“The issue of Covid-19 vaccination caused me great concern and serious reservations,” he said. “I felt profound mistrust of the vaccine and was overwhelmed by anxiety and doubts.”
Xhaka said he obtained the certificate while in that distressed state, calling the decision a mistake and offering an apology. “It was an error. I am sorry,” he said.
The Lucerne public prosecutor’s office is examining the case. Xhaka said he would submit to the investigation and cooperate fully with the relevant authorities.
For Switzerland, the immediate consequence is clear: the Nati must navigate four Nations League matches without the player who has carried the captain’s armband.
