Xhaka, Embolo can return to Swiss squad after fake Covid docs affair

Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka and striker Breel Embolo are once again eligible for selection for the upcoming Nations League matches, according to the Swiss Football Association (SFV). Both players had been dropped and missed the first four games in September and October after using forged Covid-19 certificates to avoid mandatory vaccinations during the pandemic. Xhaka, who holds a Swiss record of 152 caps, and Embolo, 29, have both acknowledged their involvement in the forgery.

The SFV has thoroughly reviewed both cases and determined that the players' return is justified, considering the completion of legal proceedings and the sporting consequences they faced by missing four international matches. National team director Pierluigi Tami stated, "We are convinced that a return to the national team in November is both responsible and the right course of action." Switzerland's coach, Murat Yakin, along with his staff and the players' council, unanimously agreed that Xhaka will retain his captaincy.

The Swiss FA believes the pair are on the shortlist for the squad, and Yakin will announce his selection for the final two group matches against Slovenia and Scotland on November 5. The team currently leads Group B1 in the Nations League with four consecutive wins. The Swiss squad met with their coach in late September when Xhaka admitted to using a fake vaccine certificate and subsequently stepped down.

Embolo also withdrew from the squad for similar reasons. Both players received suspended financial penalties, and the SFV has issued guidelines for handling future matters involving criminal law.