Granit Xhaka will retain the Switzerland captaincy after the Swiss Football Association concluded its investigation into fake Covid-19 vaccination certificates. Xhaka and teammate Breel Embolo were accused of obtaining counterfeit certificates in 2022 to represent their country.
Investigation Concluded
The Sunderland midfielder addressed the controversy last month when the Swiss Football Association launched its investigation. In a social media post, Xhaka wrote: "At the time, I was personally very uncertain and had serious concerns regarding the Covid-19 vaccination. I felt deep distrust of the vaccine and was plagued by fear and uncertainty.
"In this turbulent emotional state, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying my open questions through the proper channels. Today I clearly see this was not the right course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry. I take responsibility for this decision, am committed to investigating the matter and am co-operating with the relevant authorities."
Return to National Team
The investigation has now ended, with the SFA confirming that Xhaka and Embolo are available again after being left out of the nation's selection during the first international break of the season. A statement read: "The Swiss Football Association (SFV) will again include Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo in the national team squad starting with the Nations League matches in November. This decision was made by the SFV's central board after a thorough review of the concluded proceedings concerning the acquisition of counterfeit Covid certificates in 2021 and 2022.
"The Swiss Football Association (SFV) has thoroughly examined both cases and concluded that the players' return is justifiable after the conclusion of the legal proceedings and taking into account the sporting consequences (four missed international matches in September and October). At the same time, the association emphasizes the special responsibility that applies to members of the national teams."
Captaincy and Fine
National team director Pierluigi Tami added: "We considered this from various perspectives. The specific circumstances of both cases, the concluded legal proceedings, and the sporting consequences already implemented all factored into the decision. We are convinced that a return to the national team in November is responsible and the right thing to do."
The statement also confirmed that Xhaka would keep the captaincy. Both players will face a suspended fine of 150,000 Swiss francs ($181,225), which will be in place for a probationary period of two years.
