Illness outbreak forces Sweden into emergency call‑up

Sweden’s preparations for their Nations League fixture against Bosnia have been disrupted by an outbreak of illness within the squad. Sportbladet reported that Yasin Ayari, Benjamin Nygren and Gustaf Lagerbielke have all been placed in isolation, with the federation confirming that the trio are being kept apart “to prevent the risk of contagion.” Ayari and Nygren both started against Poland, while Lagerbielke was already sidelined through injury.

The situation adds to a growing list of absences. Holm, Ekdal and Alexander Isak have already left the camp due to physical issues, leaving Graham Potter with a depleted group. In response, the Sweden manager has called up St. Pauli defender Eric Smith, who is expected to join the squad on Wednesday night. Smith will be available for Friday’s crucial clash, as Sweden attempt to stabilise their campaign despite mounting setbacks caused by illness and injuries.