Xhaka fined for fake COVID certificate and excluded from the league

The Swiss international Granit Xhaka, 34, and captain of the national team, has been fined 150,000 Swiss francs (160,000 euros) for forging a Covid vaccination certificate during the pandemic. The footballer accepted the sanction and took responsibility.

Details of the sanction and its repercussions

Xhaka said: “I accept the decision and take responsibility,” emphasizing his willingness to comply with the measure. The fine will be waived if the captain does not incur another offence during the season. As a result, the Swiss federation left him out of the four Nations League matches.

The case was reported by journalist Fernando Gabarró, who described an altercation in a shopping centre. A Newcastle fan approached Xhaka and provoked him, generating a heated response that did not escalate. The exchange was captured in a mobile video that showed the tension.

In another context, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta commented on his debut saying: “My first day as Arsenal manager I demolished the office.” Although the phrase has no direct relation to Xhaka’s case, both names appear in the same report.

Conditional fine of 150,000 francs for Swiss captain Xhaka

The sanction amounts to 150,000 Swiss francs, equivalent to 160,000 euros, according to the competent authority. The payment will be required only if the player incurs a new offence.

Granit Xhaka, 34, is the first captain of the Swiss national team and plays as a midfielder. His absence from the Nations League leaves the team without its leader on the pitch.

Xhaka receives suspended fine As covid-19 certificate scandal looms

If Xhaka maintains an impeccable conduct, he will avoid the payment of the fine and may be reinstated to the national team. The federation has not yet announced a date for his possible return.