Granit Xhaka axed from squad over fake jab scandal while at Arsenal
Sunderland's Granit Xhaka has admitted to claiming a false covid vaccination document during his time at Arsenal.(Image: PA Wire)
Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has released a statement admitting he obtained a fake Covid-19 vaccination certificate during the coronavirus pandemic. The 33-year-old has been axed from the Switzerland international squad amidst an ongoing inquiry into the Covid-19 controversy.
The ex- Gunners midfielder is accused of obtaining a fraudulent certificate to demonstrate he'd received the Covid-19 vaccination.
An investigation has been initiated by the Lucerne public prosecutor's office to establish whether or not the midfielder had the jab, or simply secured the certificate.
Xhaka tested positive for Coronavirus back in 2022 during his time with the Gunners, and was absent for a month of fixtures following his positive test.
In 2023, a doctor in Lucerne was investigated for purportedly issuing Covid certificates to her patients without them actually receiving the vaccination. The solicitor representing the doctor, Cornel Borbély, maintains they "vaccinated Xhaka".
FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page
Nevertheless, in a statement published on social media this morning, Xhaka said: "In recent days, there has been much reporting about a matter from my past. I would like to address this personally.
"Regarding the Covid-19 vaccination, I was personally very uncertain and had serious concerns at the time. I felt deep distrust of the vaccine and was plagued by fear and uncertainty.
"In this turbulent emotional state, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying my open questions through the proper channels. Today, I clearly see that this was the wrong course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry.
"I take responsibility for this decision, am committed to investigating the matter, and am fully cooperating with the relevant authorities."
Xhaka was a constant in the Arsenal team(Image: Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Sunderland AFC were approached for a statement on the matter but would not comment, while the experienced midfielder was withdrawn from the Swiss national squad for the forthcoming international break.
Swiss authorities will now question Xhaka during the international break before determining whether to launch criminal proceedings in relation to the vaccination certificate scandal.
A spokesperson for the Lucerne Cantonal Prosecutor's Office said: "The aim is to clarify whether there has been conduct relevant under criminal law in connection with the possible fraudulent obtaining of a false certification and/or document forgery."
Choose Football London as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.