- Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has withdrawn from his country's upcoming international fixtures after admitting to using a fake Covid-19 vaccination certificate during the pandemic.
- The 33-year-old Sunderland midfielder posted an apology on social media, explaining that his actions stemmed from a “deep mistrust of the vaccine” and acknowledging that obtaining the fraudulent document was a “mistake”.
- According to reports, public prosecutors in Lucerne have opened proceedings against Xhaka, who allegedly obtained the certificate from a doctor currently under investigation, with the player expected to be questioned by authorities next month.
- Following a joint decision between Xhaka and the Swiss Football Association, Switzerland's most-capped player will miss Nations League matches against North Macedonia, Scotland, and Slovenia.
- Swiss Football Association president Peter Knabel welcomed Xhaka facing the consequences of his actions and confirmed that the association will reassess his involvement ahead of November's international match window.
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