Swiss Captain Xhaka Returns to Squad After Four-Match Suspension

The Swiss Football Association has confirmed that Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo will be available for the national team in November.

The two players missed the first four matches of the current Nations League campaign in September and October due to sanctions related to forged pandemic documents. Their return concludes a period of exclusion while legal and sporting consequences were addressed. The governing body stated on Tuesday that legal proceedings are complete and the players have already served the sporting penalty of missing four games.

Xhaka, a 34-year-old midfielder for Sunderland, holds the record for most appearances for Switzerland with 152 caps. He admitted to using a false vaccine certificate to avoid mandatory vaccinations. Embolo, a 29-year-old forward for Atlanta United, acknowledged a penal order regarding false pandemic documentation. Both players received suspended fines of 150,000 Swiss francs, approximately 181,225 US dollars, with a two-year probationary period.

Pierluigi Tami, the national team director, described the decision as a responsible step and the correct course of action. The organization believes the players are ready to rejoin the squad now that the legal matters are resolved.

Coach Murat Yakin, his staff, and the players' council unanimously agreed to retain Xhaka as team captain. Yakin welcomed the resolution, noting that he can now make unrestricted selections for the upcoming fixtures. The clarity allows the coaching staff to plan without the uncertainty that previously surrounded the availability of the two senior players.

Switzerland currently leads Group B1 with four consecutive victories. Yakin will announce the final squad for the last two group matches on November 5. Both Xhaka and Embolo are on the shortlist for selection.

The team will travel to face second-placed Slovenia on November 13. Switzerland will then host Scotland in St Gallen on November 16. These matches will determine the final standings in the group.