Yakin and players' council vote unanimously to bring Xhaka and Embolo back for November

Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo are eligible for selection in Switzerland's upcoming Nations League matches, according to an announcement from the Swiss Football Association. The two players had been omitted from the national team roster since late September while legal proceedings regarding forged vaccination documents were finalized.

The Swiss FA determined that the players have completed the necessary legal steps and have already served a sporting penalty by sitting out four international fixtures in September and October. As a result, the association will consider both athletes for the squad list to be released on November 5.

Xhaka, a midfielder for Sunderland, and Embolo, a forward for Atlanta United, both admitted to using false certificates during the pandemic. Each player received a suspended fine of 150,000 Swiss francs, equivalent to approximately $181,225. The fine remains active for a two year probationary period.

The decision was reached unanimously by coach Murat Yakin, his staff, and the players' council. The group also confirmed that Xhaka, 34, will retain the captaincy. Xhaka holds the national record with 152 caps. Embolo, 29, was similarly involved in the penal orders concerning the fake documents.

Pierluigi Tami, the national team director, stated that the return is a responsible course of action. Yakin expressed satisfaction at having full options for squad selection once again. The investigation was originally opened by the Lucerne public prosecutor's office in late September, prompting Xhaka to step down and Embolo to withdraw from the squad days later.

Switzerland currently leads Group B1 in the Nations League with four consecutive victories. The team will travel to Slovenia on November 13 for the first of two remaining group matches. Three days later, Switzerland will host Scotland in St. Gallen.