- Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has withdrawn from his country's upcoming international fixtures after admitting to using a fake Covid -19 vaccination certificate during the pandemic.
- The 33-year-old Sunderland midfielder posted an apology on social media, explaining that his actions stemmed from a “deep mistrust of the vaccine” and acknowledging that obtaining the fraudulent document was a “mistake”.
- According to reports, public prosecutors in Lucerne have opened proceedings against Xhaka, who allegedly obtained the certificate from a doctor currently under investigation, with the player expected to be questioned by authorities next month.
- Following a joint decision between Xhaka and the Swiss Football Association, Switzerland's most-capped player will miss Nations League matches against North Macedonia, Scotland, and Slovenia.
- Swiss Football Association president Peter Knabel welcomed Xhaka facing the consequences of his actions and confirmed that the association will reassess his involvement ahead of November's international match window.
IN FULL
Granit Xhaka out of Switzerland squad after admitting to faking Covid vaccination
