The Swiss Football Association (SFV) is reviewing its squad selection policies and implementing strict new guidelines following high-profile disciplinary controversies involving national team players. SFV President Peter Knäbel confirmed the necessity of internal squad evaluations after key players Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo were omitted from the latest roster amid Covid-19 certification scandals.
SFV President Defends Squad Omission of Xhaka and Embolo
Swiss national team players Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo missed selection for the opening matches of the UEFA Nations League due to ongoing investigations regarding Covid-19 certificate offenses. SFV President Peter Knäbel defended the decision in an interview with Swiss broadcaster SRF, stating that the association acted to protect the integrity of the squad and allow the team to begin its campaign without external distractions. Knäbel noted that the public debate surrounding the players confirms the association made the correct choice to sideline them.
New Guidelines and Squad-Wide Evaluations Planned
Addressing whether further roster investigations are underway, Knäbel stated that while team members are heavily sensitized to the issue, comprehensive background checks and dialogues are necessary. The governing body intends to establish explicit future guidelines to handle similar disciplinary breaches. Knäbel emphasized the need to draw a hard line regarding misconduct, questioning publicly when a threshold of tolerance is reached.
On-Field Success Continues Despite High-Profile Absences
The disciplinary action has not derailed the team’s competitive performance on the pitch. Playing without Xhaka and Embolo, the Swiss team secured a 3-0 victory against North Macedonia in Skopje. The squad continued its Nations League schedule with an away fixture against Scotland in Glasgow.
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