Granit Xhaka could find himself in trouble with FIFA over a shirt change after yesterday’s win.
Xhaka didn’t hold back in yesterday’s game against Serbia, insulting the bench, grabbing his crotch and flying into tackles, it was just another day in the office for the Swiss midfielder.
Switzerland beat Serbia 3-2 in one of the most exciting games of the tournament so far and have booked their place in the round of 16. Brazil topped the group despite an upset loss to Cameroon.
Switzerland and Serbia have always had a heated rival dating back decades, as a result, many of their games become heated. Yesterday was no different.
Xhaka was at the heart of the Switzerland team and put in a man-of-the-match performance but he could find himself in hot water over his off-the-pitch antics.
In his post-match interview, the Arsenal midfielder could be seen wearing a jersey with the name ‘Jashari’ on the back.
Xhaka claimed that it was for his teammate Ardon Jashari but it is also the same name as a founder of the Kosovo Liberation Army.
Xhaka is of Albanian descent and connected to Kosovo, which after declaring its independence in 2008, still hasn’t been recognised by Serbia.
❗️Arsenal midfielder and Swiss captain Granit Xhaka could be at the center of a FIFA Investigation as the player posing with a “Jashari” shirt has caused a political stir.
So far, the Fifa Disciplinary Committee has not reacted.
(Swiss paper @Blickch 🌖) pic.twitter.com/r1JTnEQ27D
— Doc (@karthikadhaigal) December 3, 2022
Xhaka claimed that it had no political meaning.
“There’s no political background to it whatsoever.
“Ardon is part of our squad and we spend a lot of time together. I told him if we won I would wear his shirt.” Xhaka told the reporter.
The Swiss midfielder could yet find himself in trouble with FIFA if an investigation is launched.
Xhaka is a key player for his team and if he did receive a suspension it could be disastrous. Switzerland will face Portugal on Tuesday in the round of 16 and will need their captain on the day.