Forged Covid vaccine certificate lands Granit Xhaka in trouble

Switzerland captain and national team skipper Granit Xhaka has found himself in trouble after admitting to using a forged Covid vaccine certificate during the pandemic. The 33-year-old midfielder presented the fraudulent document to circumvent mandatory vaccination requirements. Following his admission on social media, Xhaka expressed deep mistrust and anxiety regarding the vaccine, acknowledging that his decision was a mistake and that he was sorry for his actions.

He is currently cooperating fully with the relevant authorities as Swiss media report on the matter.

The Swiss Football Association announced that Xhaka will not join the national team for their training camp in Belek, Turkey, starting Monday. This decision was made in agreement with the player, as they believe it to be in the team's best interest to proceed without him. Swiss FA president Peter Knabel emphasized the club's priority of calming the situation and focusing on the team and upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.

Switzerland's first match will be away to North Macedonia on Saturday, September 24, followed by a trip to face Scotland on September 29. Subsequent matches include games against Slovenia on October 3 and 6, and North Macedonia on October 13 and November 16. The Swiss Football Association will reassess the situation with Xhaka at the end of the international window and discuss the next steps.