Sunderland and Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has admitted obtaining a false COVID-19 vaccination certificate during the pandemic, describing the decision as a mistake and apologising for his actions.
The 33-year-old midfielder addressed the issue publicly on Monday after reports emerged about an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the certificate.
In a personal statement, Xhaka said he had been uncertain about the COVID-19 vaccine at the time and had “deep distrust” of it, while fear and uncertainty influenced his decision.
In this emotionally charged situation, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of having my unanswered questions clarified through the proper channels,” Xhaka stated.
He acknowledged that his actions were wrong and accepted responsibility.
Today, I clearly see that this was not the right course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry,” he added.
Xhaka also said he was prepared to cooperate fully with the relevant authorities as the matter is clarified.
Switzerland squad omission
Following his admission, Xhaka will not join Switzerland’s national team for the current international window. The decision was reached jointly between the player and the Swiss Football Association
Swiss Football Association president Peter Knäbel said Xhaka had informed the association about the matter and indicated that he intended to speak publicly and take responsibility. The federation said the decision to leave him out was intended to allow the team to concentrate on its upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.
Switzerland are scheduled to face North Macedonia and Scotland away before hosting Slovenia and North Macedonia in October. The SFV said Xhaka’s situation would be reassessed after the current international window.
Investigation continues
The admission comes after the Lucerne public prosecutor’s office opened proceedings concerning a potentially falsified COVID-19 certificate. Swiss broadcaster SRF reported that the investigation is intended to establish whether there was criminally relevant conduct involving the acquisition of a false document or document forgery.
Xhaka, who has 152 international appearances for Switzerland, joined Sunderland after previous spells with Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen.
