Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo Return to Swiss National Team

Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo have been cleared to return to the Switzerland national football team starting with the November international fixtures. The Swiss Football Association (SFV) confirmed the decision, ending a period of exclusion following investigations into the acquisition of forged COVID-19 vaccination certificates in 2021 and 2022.

Why it is trending now

The announcement follows the conclusion of legal proceedings regarding the players' use of fraudulent documents. Both individuals were previously dropped from the squad in September and missed Nations League matches against Scotland, North Macedonia, and Slovenia. National team director Pierluigi Tami stated that the decision to reintegrate the players was made after reviewing the concluded legal cases and the sporting consequences already applied.

Key facts

• The Swiss Football Association confirmed that both players are available for selection by manager Murat Yakin for the upcoming November fixtures against Slovenia and Scotland.
• According to the SFV, Granit Xhaka will retain his position as team captain.
• Each player was issued a fine of 150,000 Swiss francs and a two-year suspended sentence, provided no further offenses occur.
• Granit Xhaka holds the record for the most appearances for Switzerland with 152 caps.

Why this is trending in Switzerland

As the captain and a key striker for the national side, the availability of Xhaka and Embolo is a significant topic for Swiss football fans. The public interest stems from the high profile of both players and the administrative controversy that led to their temporary removal from the national squad.

Background and context

The controversy centered on the acquisition and use of forged COVID-19 vaccination certificates, which allowed the players to travel and compete during the pandemic era. Both Xhaka and Embolo admitted to the actions, leading to investigations by the SFV. The association has now deemed their return to the national team setup as responsible, citing the resolution of all associated legal matters.

What happens next

Manager Murat Yakin will now decide whether to include the players in the squad for the November international window. While their eligibility is confirmed, the final selection remains at the discretion of the coaching staff.