Granit Xhaka and striker Breel Embolo permitted to return to Switzerland national team, but captaincy remains unsettled
Return after investigation
Xhaka and Embolo are set to become eligible for Switzerland again next month. Their cases concerned forged Covid-19 vaccination certificates obtained by the pair. Embolo, 29, was dropped from the national squad in September for the same reason. The article does not say whether Xhaka was also dropped at that time.
Fines and suspended bans
Both players were fined 150,000 Swiss francs, equivalent to £136,000. The fines were suspended for two years on condition that they commit no further offences. National team director Pierluigi Tami said the decision reflected the circumstances of each case, the completed legal proceedings and sporting consequences already applied.
Captaincy remains undecided
The Swiss Football Association said the coach, Yakin, will make the final decision about the captaincy. His squad announcement is scheduled for 5 November. Xhaka’s return does not therefore confirm whether he will retain the captain’s role. The article does not provide further details about the coach’s decision.
Key points
- Xhaka and Embolo can play for Switzerland again next month.
- Both received fines of 150,000 Swiss francs, suspended for two years if they commit no further offences.
- Embolo, 29, was dropped from the squad in September for the same issue.
- Coach Yakin will decide the captaincy and announce his squad on 5 November.