Fake Covid-19 vaccination certificates? Former Arsenal star Granit Xhaka under investigation

NEW DELHI: Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka, a former key figure in the midfield of Premier League club Arsenal, is facing criminal proceedings over allegations linked to Covid-19 vaccination certificates, with the Lucerne Public Prosecutor’s Office investigating whether any criminal conduct took place.According to Swiss publication Blick, authorities are examining suspicions that Xhaka may have obtained fake vaccination certificates. The certificates were reportedly issued by a doctor in Lucerne, whose office was searched by police in 2023, with evidence seized during the operation.Xhaka, however, has denied the allegations and maintains that he was properly vaccinated against Covid-19. His spokesperson, Andreas Bantel, said the footballer has confirmation from his treating physician that he received vaccinations on January 25 and November 11, 2022.Xhaka to be questioned in OctoberThe 33-year-old midfielder is scheduled to be questioned by prosecutors in early October. Investigators are seeking to establish whether the Covid-19 vaccinations recorded on the certificates were actually administered.Lucerne Public Prosecutor’s Office spokesperson Simon Kopp confirmed to Blick that an investigation is underway. The authorities are looking into whether conduct relevant to criminal law occurred in connection with the certificates.Xhaka’s spokesperson said the Switzerland captain would cooperate with the investigation “unconditionally and with full transparency.”The doctor at the centre of the allegations has also rejected the claims. Her lawyer, Cornel Borbély, told *Blick* that his client had vaccinated Xhaka and that the procedure was carried out according to standard medical practice.Both Xhaka and the doctor are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise.The investigation comes as Xhaka continues to lead Switzerland at international level. The midfielder, who has built a long career in European football, remains the national team captain while the authorities establish the facts surrounding the Covid-19 certificates.The case is now expected to move forward with Xhaka’s questioning in October, after which prosecutors will determine whether there is sufficient evidence for further proceedings.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.