The Switzerland national football team began their journey to the United States ahead of preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, but did so without one of their key players: striker Breel Embolo was forced to remain behind due to complications with his entry authorization.

Embolo, who plays for French club Stade Rennais FC, had initially received approval to enter the United States. However, Swiss football authorities confirmed that his case was unexpectedly placed “under review” at the last moment, preventing him from boarding the team flight.

The Swiss Football Association (SFA) stated that they are working to resolve the issue and expect Embolo to join the squad in San Diego, where Switzerland has set up its tournament base camp. The situation was reflected by the team on social media, posting a cabin photo showing an empty seat reserved for Embolo as a symbolic gesture of support while awaiting his arrival.

Born in Cameroon, Embolo is a key figure for Switzerland, with 85 international caps and 23 goals. The 2026 tournament would mark his third World Cup appearance, reinforcing his role as one of the team’s main attacking threats.

Looking ahead to the FIFA World Cup 2026, Switzerland enter Group B as favorites alongside Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Qatar. Their primary objective is to surpass the quarter-finals for the first time in history, although they have consistently reached the round of 16 in recent editions.

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