Granit Xhaka under investigation for COVID-19, exits national team

In the silence of Sunderland's dressing room, midfielder Granit Xhaka received a phone call that changed his international future. The 33-year-old told the DPA that he will no longer wear Switzerland's shirt in upcoming matches.

Xhaka is at the centre of a Swiss criminal investigation for forging a COVID-19 vaccination certificate. The news was confirmed by the newspaper Blick, which detailed the method used by the player.

Investigation for forged certificate

According to Blick, the midfielder obtained the fake document through a doctor in Lucerne, despite not having been vaccinated. The certificate claimed a vaccination against COVID-19 that did not exist.

Authorities unmasked the doctor at the beginning of this month, involving him in an investigation into the illegal trade of certificates. Xhaka's name appeared in the files, confirming his involvement.

The player admitted the facts, stating that he is cooperating with law enforcement. “It was my mistake. At the time I was very distrustful. I deeply regret it,” he said at a press conference.

Xhaka will be questioned in Switzerland at the beginning of October and, for this reason, has withdrawn from the next four Nations League matches. The decision is not related to injuries, but to criminal seriousness.

In criminal terms, the law provides for a fine and, theoretically, a suspended custodial sentence with conditions. No decision has been made yet.

During the international break Switzerland will face North Macedonia, Scotland, Slovenia and North Macedonia again. Xhaka's absence will weaken the midfield.

At 33, Xhaka had 152 caps for the national team and could have returned as captain. The investigation excludes him from the next selection by coach Murat Yakin.