Xhaka withdraws from Swiss squad over Covid-19 probe

Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka is under investigation by Swiss prosecutors in Lucerne over allegations that he obtained a forged Covid-19 vaccination certificate in 2022. The 33-year-old Sunderland midfielder, who played for Arsenal at the time, released a social media statement admitting he acquired the certificate due to mistrust and uncertainty surrounding the vaccine, calling his decision a mistake.

Following his statement, Xhaka withdrew from the Switzerland national team for their upcoming Nations League matches against Scotland, North Macedonia, and Slovenia. Sunderland manager Regis le Bris declined to comment on the situation, stating his focus remains entirely on football.