Aston Villa midfielder Johann Manzambi has withdrawn from the Switzerland squad ahead of their upcoming Nations League matches due to a persistent calf injury.
The Swiss Football Association (ASF) announced the decision on Thursday, confirming the player will return to his club for treatment.
Manzambi arrived at the national team’s training camp on Monday while already experiencing discomfort. Despite what the federation described as “intensive medical care” and additional examinations, his physical condition did not improve sufficiently to allow him to participate in the scheduled fixtures, according to RTS.
Switzerland roster reduced to 26 players
The Swiss team, led by manager Murat Yakin, will not call up a replacement for Manzambi. The squad size is now set at 26 players for the matches against Slovenia on Friday and Scotland three days later. The federation confirmed that the decision to release the midfielder was made by mutual agreement with Aston Villa.
Manzambi’s absence is the latest roster adjustment for the Nati this week. On Tuesday, FC Zurich goalkeeper Silas Huber also left the training camp after suffering a concussion, as reported by blue News.
Impact on national team availability
The 2026 campaign has been challenging for Manzambi regarding fitness. The Geneva native previously missed Switzerland’s final two matches at the 2026 World Cup due to a knee contusion. Prior to this current injury, he had recorded four goals and two assists for the national team throughout the calendar year, according to 20 Minuten.
The midfielder is scheduled to return to England immediately to continue his recovery under the supervision of his club’s medical staff. The Swiss national team continues its preparations for the Slovenia fixture, with the match serving as the next checkpoint for Yakin’s side.
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