Switzerland striker Breel Embolo has been sanctioned and left out of the squad for the upcoming Nations League matches. This decision comes after it was discovered that he used forged Covid-19 test certificates during the pandemic. Embolo is the second player to be dropped this week, following captain Granit Xhaka who confessed to using a fake certificate to avoid a mandatory vaccination.
The Swiss football association announced Embolo's omission from the squad on Friday, without specifying a reason. However, Swiss media reported that the decision was linked to a fine imposed in November 2025. Embolo was fined after claiming to have passed Covid tests using fake certificates. The Atlanta United player recently spoke to the St. Galler Tagblatt daily, stating that he had understood his behavior was not correct and accepted his responsibility.
Xhaka admitted to using a fake certificate on Monday, citing deep mistrust regarding the vaccine and being gripped by anxiety and doubt. The Sunderland midfielder made his confession on social media. The Swiss FA said Xhaka's case would be reviewed after the current international window. Both players' actions have led to their exclusion from the Swiss squad.
Switzerland begins their Nations League campaign away to North Macedonia on Saturday. They will then travel to face Scotland on September 29. Embolo would have been suspended for the first game due to a red card in the World Cup quarter-finals against Argentina. The Swiss team will also host Slovenia and North Macedonia in Lucerne on October 3 and 6.
The Swiss football association's decision to drop Embolo and Xhaka highlights the country's strict stance on Covid-19 protocols. The association has taken a firm approach to ensure players adhere to regulations. This move demonstrates the consequences players may face for violating these protocols.
Embolo's and Xhaka's cases have garnered significant attention in the football world. The incident has sparked discussions about the importance of adhering to Covid-19 protocols. The Swiss team's upcoming matches will be closely watched to see how the team performs without two of its key players.
The Nations League matches will be crucial for Switzerland as they look to make a strong start in the competition. The team will need to regroup and focus on their upcoming games. The absence of Embolo and Xhaka will undoubtedly be felt, but the team will aim to deliver a strong performance.
Key points
- Switzerland's Breel Embolo and Granit Xhaka have been dropped from the squad due to using forged Covid-19 test certificates.
- The Swiss football association has taken a firm stance on Covid-19 protocols, resulting in the exclusion of both players.
- Switzerland begins their Nations League campaign away to North Macedonia on Saturday, followed by matches against Scotland, Slovenia, and North Macedonia.
