Full Breakdown
Switzerland Removes Xhaka and Embolo from Nations League Squad Over Fake Vaccination Certificates
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
The Swiss Football Association announced that captain Granit Xhaka and forward Breel Embolo have been withdrawn from the national team’s Nations League campaign after investigations revealed each had obtained forged COVID-19 vaccination certificates. Xhaka, who holds the Swiss record with 152 caps, voluntarily stepped aside after admitting he received a falsified document in 2022. Embolo, a 29-year-old forward who scored in Switzerland’s World Cup quarter-final run, was removed with immediate effect following fresh reporting on his 2021 acquisition of a forged test result. The federation said the moves are intended to keep the squad fully focused on upcoming matches.
Background & Context
Both players have previously faced disciplinary issues. Embolo was suspended for the opening Nations League match after receiving a controversial red card in the World Cup quarter-final against Argentina; the International Football Association Board later acknowledged the dismissal breached video-review protocol. In addition, Swiss media reported a financial sanction imposed on Embolo last year for the earlier false-test documents. Xhaka’s false certificate was obtained from a doctor in Lucerne and was confirmed to a German news agency, prompting Swiss authorities to schedule questioning for him next week.
Official Statements & Responses
Xhaka publicly accepted responsibility for his mistake, and the association indicated that legal proceedings may follow, though no decision on criminal prosecution for Embolo has been disclosed.
Data & Statistics
- Granit Xhaka: 152 caps, record holder for Switzerland.
- Breel Embolo: 26 goals in 82 appearances for the national team.
- Nations League schedule: matches against North Macedonia (away), Scotland (away), Slovenia (home), and a return fixture with North Macedonia (home).
Why It Matters
The removals leave Switzerland without two of its most experienced attacking options as it competes in the second tier of the Nations League. The incident also highlights ongoing scrutiny of COVID-19 documentation practices within European football and may prompt tighter verification procedures by national associations. Upcoming fixtures will test the squad’s depth and cohesion without its captain and leading striker.