Breel Embolo
CF
Poacher
Feb 14, 1997 (29)
Right
6'2"
185 lb
Visa issues delay arrival
Embolo missed Saturday's 1-1 draw against Australia after arriving late to the United States squad camp due to visa issues, with coach Murat Yakin confirming he will be available for next week's training and Switzerland's World Cup opener against Qatar on June 13, according to RTS. "He was missing and we are happy he is on his way to join us. We need him, he needs us. Given the situation, with the travel, the stress and the jet lag, it makes no sense for him to play tomorrow."
Analysis: Embolo is expected to regain his spot as the starting striker for the World Cup opener once he has fully recovered from the travel disruption, with coach Murat Yakin confirming the late arrival will have no impact on his tournament availability and was solely the result of visa-related issues.
Expected to start up front
Embolo has been named in Switzerland's World Cup squad and is expected to lead the attack, arriving at the tournament in solid form after a productive season with Rennes.
Analysis: Embolo contributed eight goals and three assists across 31 appearances this season, delivering a consistent output that reaffirms his value as a physical and mobile center-forward capable of both finishing chances and holding up play. His strength, aerial presence and ability to bring teammates into the attack make him a difficult proposition for any defensive unit, while his role as Switzerland's primary penalty taker adds another dimension to his goalscoring potential. At 29, Embolo heads into his third World Cup with the experience and composure needed to perform in the most demanding moments of a major tournament. Embolo is the focal point of Switzerland's attacking structure, with the entire frontline built around his ability to press, combine with teammates and finish in tight spaces. His work rate off the ball is equally valuable, as he constantly creates space for the creative players around him. Switzerland will be counting on him to deliver when chances arise, and his combination of physicality, technical quality and international experience makes him one of the tournament's more complete center-forwards.
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