Granit Xhaka suspended after admitting to falsifying Covid-19 certificate | OneFootball

Granit Xhaka, midfielder for Sunderland and captain of the Switzerland national team, has admitted that he falsified a Covid-19 certificate in the past and, as a consequence, has been suspended for four matches, to be served while on international duty with his country.

"At the time, the issue of Covid-19 vaccination caused me great concern and raised serious doubts. I felt deep distrust towards the vaccine and was overcome by anxiety and uncertainty," the experienced player wrote on his social media accounts.

"I am available to help establish the facts and to cooperate fully with the competent authorities," he added, admitting it was 'a mistake' on his part.

In response, Xhaka met with the Swiss Football Association (ASF), and both parties reached an agreement for him to be suspended for four matches, meaning he will miss this international window, in which Switzerland will compete in the Nations League.

"At the end of this international window, we will reassess the situation with Granit and discuss the next steps," said Peter Knäbel, president of the ASF, in a statement.

Switzerland are in Group 1 of League B in the Nations League. During this international window, they will face North Macedonia (26th September), Scotland (29th September), Slovenia (3rd October) and North Macedonia again (6th October).