Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo are set to return to action for Switzerland next month following an investigation into forged Covid-19 vaccination certificates, the Swiss Football Association (SFV) announced. Both will be available to manager Murat Yakin for friendly matches against Slovenia and Scotland.
Switzerland captain Xhaka missed the Nations League matches against Scotland, North Macedonia and Slovenia during the October international window after admitting he had obtained a false certificate that allowed him to travel and play in 2022. Striker Embolo, 29, was also dropped from the Swiss team in September for the same reason.
National team director Pierluigi Tami said: "We have considered this from different perspectives. The specific circumstances of both cases, the completed legal proceedings and the sporting consequences already imposed all influenced the decision." He added: "We are confident that a return to the national team in November is responsible and the right thing."
Both Xhaka and Embolo were fined 150,000 Swiss francs (£136,000) and suspended for two years on condition that they do not commit new offences. Xhaka, who took responsibility for his actions, has not been stripped of his captaincy.
However, the SFV stated in its announcement that the final decision on the captaincy remains with manager Yakin, who will announce his squad on 5 November. Switzerland are top of Group A ahead of their final two Nations League matches against Slovenia and Scotland on 13 and 16 November.
