Granit Xhaka has been left out of Switzerland’s upcoming internationals after being placed under investigation over an alleged Covid-19 vaccination certificate forgery.
The Switzerland captain has acknowledged obtaining a vaccination certificate in 2022, describing the decision as a “mistake” made during what he called a period of emotional turmoil.
The Lucerne Public Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed that Xhaka is under investigation and is expected to face questioning by the authorities.
Reports from Switzerland state that the alleged forgery took place while Xhaka was still an Arsenal player.
The development has now overshadowed the midfielder’s return to Swiss football headlines, with his international involvement affected as the investigation continues.
Xhaka has apologised for his actions and said he is prepared to cooperate fully with the authorities.
“At the time, I was personally very unsettled and had serious reservations about the Covid-19 vaccination. I felt a deep mistrust of the vaccine and was overcome by fears and uncertainty.
“In this state of emotional turmoil, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of seeking answers to my unresolved questions through the proper channels.
“I take full responsibility for this decision, am prepared to address the matter fully and will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities.”
The midfielder’s comments make clear that he accepts responsibility for obtaining the certificate, while the investigation will now determine the full circumstances surrounding the case.
The alleged incident dates back to 2022, when Xhaka was established as one of Arsenal’s senior figures.
He had joined the Gunners in 2016 from Borussia Monchengladbach and went on to make more than 200 appearances for the Premier League club before leaving for Bayer Leverkusen in 2023.
Xhaka later returned to the Premier League with Sunderland, where he remains an experienced figure at club level.
His international status has also been affected by the latest development, with Switzerland leaving him out of the squad for the upcoming fixtures.
The investigation is being handled by the Lucerne Public Prosecutor’s Office, which means the matter remains ongoing.
Xhaka’s own statement also indicates that he intends to engage with the authorities rather than avoid the process.
The 33-year-old’s admission has therefore added another layer to a case that dates back several years.
At the time of the alleged offence, Covid-19 vaccination requirements and related certification rules were in place across many countries, with football players also facing various restrictions and protocols.
Xhaka has now explained that he had serious concerns about vaccination at the time, but acknowledged that obtaining a certificate instead of addressing those concerns through the proper channels was a decision he takes responsibility for.
The Swiss midfielder will now await questioning as the authorities continue their investigation.
For now, the key issue is that Xhaka is under investigation and has admitted obtaining the certificate. The precise legal outcome will depend on the findings of the Lucerne Public Prosecutor’s Office and any subsequent proceedings.
His absence from Switzerland’s upcoming internationals ensures the controversy will remain a major talking point around the midfielder while the investigation develops.
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