Switzerland are recalling captain Granit Xhaka and forward Breel Embolo after a disciplinary suspension. Manager Murat Yakin will reintegrate both players into the squad for the final Nations League matches in November.
The return follows the so-called Corona affair, in which Xhaka forged two vaccination certificates and Embolo purchased fake test certificates. Both players received fines from the public prosecutor's office for incidents in 2021 and 2022. Yakin had subsequently excluded them from the Nations League fixtures against North Macedonia, Scotland, and Slovenia in September and October.
"I am excited that I can once again select without restrictions for the squad in November," said Yakin. The manager confirmed that Xhaka retains the captain's armband. Association president Peter Knäbel pointed to new, transparent guidelines designed to allow for individual assessment of such cases. These apply to all players and staff from youth to professional levels.
Association Confirms Return
SFV director Pierluigi Tami stated the association is convinced the return is responsible and correct. The new rules are based on five principles: uniform regulations, presumption of innocence, individual assessment, mandatory duty to inform, and proportional measures. The official squad for the final two group games against Slovenia and Scotland will be announced on November 5.
The return of the two experienced players comes during a strong period for the national team. The side is in excellent form with four wins from four matches and leads the group. The most recent 3-0 victory over North Macedonia on October 6 was sealed by goals from Fabian Rieder, Johan Manzambi, and Dan Ndoye. Manzambi is currently the team's top scorer this season with three goals in four appearances.
Switzerland's next fixture is the away match in Slovenia on November 13. The return of Xhaka and Embolo is intended to add further quality for the conclusion of a successful Nations League group stage.
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