“Today, I clearly see that this was the wrong course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry.” Granit Xhaka said that after Switzerland removed him from the squad as prosecutors in Lucerne examine a Covid-19 vaccine certificate issue. Xhaka says he obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying his open questions through the proper channels.

Xhaka's apology and explanation

Xhaka began by saying: “In recent days, there has been much reporting about a matter from my past. I would like to address this personally.” He then said he had been “personally very uncertain” about the Covid-19 vaccination and felt “deep distrust of the vaccine”.

His own account is now the clearest version of events available. “In this turbulent emotional state, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying my open questions through the proper channels,” he said. He also said: “I take responsibility for this decision, am committed to investigating the matter, and am fully cooperating with the relevant authorities.”

Switzerland's response and the investigation

The Lucerne public prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into whether Xhaka had the vaccination or only obtained the certificate. A spokesperson said: “The aim is to clarify whether there has been conduct relevant under criminal law in connection with the possible fraudulent obtaining of a false certification and/or document forgery.”

The Swiss Football Association said the decision to withdraw had been made jointly by the player and management. The move came before upcoming Nations League matches against Scotland, North Macedonia and Slovenia.

Xhaka is also Sunderland's captain, and the club's off-field problem lands while he remains an important part of their season. He has made 4 Premier League appearances, played 360 minutes and has a 7.1 rating this season. Switzerland are top of their group with 7 points from 3 matches, so the national team are dealing with the issue in the middle of a strong run.

The allegation is still an allegation. What happens next sits with the Lucerne authorities, who are deciding whether criminal proceedings are needed, while Xhaka remains out of Switzerland's camp.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 2 outlets. How we work →