Yakin Wants Xhaka and Embolo Back for Switzerland’s Nations League Push

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin wants Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo back for November’s decisive Nations League matches, despite the vaccination-certificate controversy that has kept both players out of the recent squad.

Yakin pushes for full-strength return

Yakin has made clear that sporting needs come first as Switzerland chase promotion back to Nations League A. The Sunderland midfielder Xhaka and Atlanta United forward Embolo are expected to be discussed internally by the Swiss FA, with direct conversations with the players planned later this month.

The coach believes Switzerland cannot afford to leave out two of their most important figures for fixtures against Scotland and Slovenia. He said he wanted both men available again, stressing that their qualities cannot simply be replaced.

• Switzerland face Scotland and Slovenia in November.
• FA discussions over Xhaka and Embolo are due to begin immediately.
• Meetings with the players are scheduled later this month.
• One further victory would secure Switzerland’s promotion to League A.

Captaincy set to return to Xhaka

Manuel Akanji has led the team during Xhaka’s absence, with the Inter Milan defender stepping into the responsibility effectively. But Yakin has indicated that the captaincy has not changed permanently.

The Switzerland manager said Xhaka’s long service and established role in the group mean he remains the side’s captain. There will be a discussion once he returns to camp, but Yakin expects the armband to go back to Xhaka.

Akanji has backed that position, saying the squad hold Xhaka in high regard and that his return would make him captain again. The defender’s stance underlines that there is no internal contest for the role.

Promotion remains within reach

Switzerland have maintained a perfect record through four Nations League games, collecting 12 points and building a strong goal difference. Supporters have continued to chant for Xhaka and Embolo during the team’s recent matches, reflecting the belief that the side is stronger with both players involved.

What happens next

Swiss FA officials will now attempt to resolve the off-field issues before the November training camp. If an agreement is reached, Yakin plans to welcome both Xhaka and Embolo back as Switzerland aim to complete promotion with a game-winning finish against Scotland or Slovenia.