Granit Xhaka Under Investigation in Switzerland Over Alleged Fake COVID Vaccine Certificate
Granit Xhaka, the Swiss midfield enforcer currently captaining Sunderland, is facing a legal inquiry in his homeland. According to reports from Blick, the Lucerne public prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into the 33-year-old regarding an alleged forged COVID-19 vaccination certificate. The probe centers on Xhaka’s connections to a doctor who is accused of distributing fake certificates during the pandemic. Specifically, authorities suspect that Xhaka obtained a document claiming he had been vaccinated against the virus when he had not. This development has caused considerable stir in Switzerland, where Xhaka remains a prominent national team figure.
The timing of the investigation adds another layer of complexity to Xhaka’s career. After a successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he played a pivotal role in the club’s historic first-ever Bundesliga title, Xhaka made a surprising move to Sunderland. Former Tottenham striker Jermaine Defoe recently revealed that Xhaka sought his advice before joining the “sleeping giants” of Sunderland. Since his arrival, Xhaka has become a vital part of the team’s system and was a key figure in Leverkusen’s championship triumph. However, the off-field legal issues could cast a shadow over his current season.
While the investigation is ongoing, it is important to note that no charges have been filed, and Xhaka is presumed innocent until proven otherwise. The Lucerne prosecutor’s office has not released further details, and Xhaka’s representatives have yet to comment publicly. This is not the first time Xhaka has made headlines for his on-field aggression—a recent clip showed him “suddenly clattering his opponent” during a match—but this legal matter is of a far more serious nature.
As the story develops, fans and clubs alike will be watching closely. For Sunderland, who rely on Xhaka’s leadership and experience, the investigation could pose a distraction. For Xhaka himself, the outcome will determine whether his legacy in Swiss football is tarnished. The coming weeks will be crucial as the legal process unfolds.
Shimanta Das 
