Fresh claims emerge about other footballers after Granit Xhaka Covid admission

Other players are reported to have allegedly also made use of 'falsified' Covid 19 vaccine certificates

According to investigative journalist Romain Molina, whose work has been published by outlets including The New York Times and The Guardian, other footballers may also have travelled using “falsified” Covid-19 vaccination certificates.

Taking to X on Tuesday, hours after the Xhaka allegations emerged, Molina wrote the following: "Xhaka isn't the only player to have falsified a Covid test or obtained a fake vaccination certificate.

"No need to ask me who, I don't have the test(s) in question, but a lot of people WITHIN French clubs/LFP are talking about how we sometimes turned a blind eye in L1 in particular."

As Molina has not yet named any of the players, with the reporter saying, "no need to ask me who," it is unclear who exactly else is alleged to have broken the rules, or at what level of the game they played.

It remains to be seen over the coming days whether any further details emerge relating to the exact footballers involved.

What has happened with Granit Xhaka?

Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka could face up to five years in prison over an allegation he used a forged Covid-19 vaccine passport to travel, despite himself reportedly not being vaccinated.

As reported by Swiss media outlet Blick, cited in reports from RMC Sport, the Switzerland player is suspected to have used the Covid passport to travel, without ever having been vaccinated.

"Forgery can be punished by a fine or a prison sentence of up to five years," a criminal law expert is reported to have told Blick.

"A person with no prior criminal record can expect a suspended fine. In addition, there is a maximum fine of 10,000 Swiss francs (£9,000)," they added.

Following widespread reports in Switzerland, Xhaka and the national team's management have taken the decision for the midfielder to take no part in the upcoming Nation's League games over the coming weeks, while Swiss prosecutors continue their enquiries.  

What has Xhaka said?

Taking to Instagram on Monday, Granit Xhaka has posted the following statement.

Translated from the Swiss star's preferred language of German, it reads: "In recent days, a lot has been reported about an issue from my past.

"I would like to address this personally. At the time, in connection with the COVID-19 vaccination, I was personally very uncertain and had serious concerns.

"I had deep distrust towards the vaccine and was affected by fear and uncertainty.

"In this emotional state, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of addressing my unanswered questions through the proper channels.

"Today, I clearly see that this was not the right way to proceed. It was a mistake. I am sorry.

"I take responsibility for this decision, will face the investigation into the matter, and will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities."