Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has withdrawn from the national team’s Nations League squad after admitting that he obtained a fake COVID-19 vaccination certificate in 2022. The 33-year-old Sunderland midfielder apologized, accepted responsibility and said he would cooperate with an ongoing investigation by prosecutors in Lucerne.

In a public statement, Xhaka said he had been deeply distrustful and fearful of the COVID-19 vaccine at the time, and that, in that emotional state, he chose to obtain a vaccination certificate rather than resolve his concerns through the appropriate channels. “It was a mistake. I am sorry,” he said. The episode occurred while he was playing for Arsenal.

The case is still under investigation. Prosecutors are examining whether Xhaka received a fraudulent certificate from a Lucerne doctor who is also being investigated. Earlier, Xhaka’s representative had said he possessed confirmation from the doctor that he had received vaccine doses in January and November 2022. Reports have highlighted inconsistencies in the stated date of the second vaccination, though Xhaka and the doctor retain the presumption of innocence during the proceedings.

The Swiss Football Association said Xhaka informed it of the situation and intended to take responsibility publicly. Federation president Peter Knäbel said the organization welcomed his willingness to clarify the matter, but agreed it was best for the squad to complete the forthcoming camp without its captain so the team could concentrate on its Nations League fixtures. The federation is expected to reassess the matter with Xhaka after the international window.

Xhaka, Switzerland’s record appearance holder with 152 caps, will miss four Nations League matches: away to North Macedonia and Scotland, followed by home fixtures against Slovenia and North Macedonia. His absence deprives Switzerland of its captain, principal midfield organiser and one of its most experienced leaders at a key point in the competition.