Covid fake certificate scandal! Breel Embolo dropped from Switzerland squad after Granit Xhaka withdrawal over forged documents
Swiss soccer players Breel Embolo and Granit Xhaka have been removed from the national squad due to a scandal involving forged COVID-19 vaccination certificates. The Swiss soccer federation stated the move is intended to keep the team focused on upcoming matches.
Why it matters
This highlights the intersection of professional sports, legal accountability, and the lingering social impact of pandemic-era health regulations.
Switzerland have been rocked by further controversy after Breel Embolo became the second high-profile star to be removed from their Nations League squad. The Atlanta United forward follows captain Granit Xhaka in withdrawing from international duty due to ongoing legal issues regarding forged COVID-19 certificates.
The Swiss national team’s international break has been thrown into further disarray following the departure of Embolo. The Atlanta United forward will not be travelling for Tuesday's clash against Scotland as originally intended, after the Swiss soccer federation confirmed his exit on Friday following fresh media reports surrounding his involvement in obtaining forged COVID-19 test certificates in 2021.
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