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This thread is resolved. Here is a description of the problem and solution.

Problem:
The client updated their language parameter to /fr, /de, etc., and resubmitted their sitemaps to Google Search Console. However, the sitemap still included the old language format (?lang=), leading to incorrect pages being displayed in Google search results.
Solution:
1. We recommended the client to clear their website's cache, including server-side cache, to ensure that the sitemap is updated correctly.
2. We advised checking if the Rank Math SEO plugin has an option to refresh the sitemap_index.xml.
3. From the WPML side, no further action is required. However, we suggested that the client monitor Google indexing for any errors.

If you're experiencing a similar issue, we recommend you try the following steps:
- Clear your website's cache, including server-side cache.
- Check if your SEO plugin, such as Rank Math SEO, has an option to refresh the sitemap.
- Monitor Google indexing for any errors.

Please note that this solution might be irrelevant if it's outdated or not applicable to your case. We highly recommend checking related known issues, verifying the version of the permanent fix, and confirming that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. If the issue persists, please open a new support ticket.

This is the technical support forum for WPML - the multilingual WordPress plugin.

Everyone can read, but only WPML clients can post here. WPML team is replying on the forum 6 days per week, 22 hours per day.

This topic contains 3 replies, has 2 voices.

Last updated by Marsel Nikolli 1 year, 2 months ago.

Assisted by: Marsel Nikolli.

Author Posts
February 8, 2024 at 11:12 am #15280750

raduV

Tell us what you are trying to do?

Hi, after speaking with Nicolas (https://wpml.org/forums/topic/split-icons-not-loading-up/), we've updated our language parameter to /fr, de etc. We've also re-submitted our sitemaps (hidden link) to Google Search Console, but unfortunately, that sitemap still includes the old language format (?lang=).

As of right now, if someone clicks on our google keywords, they will be taken to a wrong page (for example: hidden link).

Which do you think it's the best way to get the new pages up and running on google, get rid of the old ones, while doing it as soon as possible?

Many thanks!

February 8, 2024 at 12:10 pm #15281058

Marsel Nikolli

Hi,

Thank you for contacting WPML Support, I will be happy to help you.

Could you please try clearing your website's cache (included server-side cache) and after check the sitemap_index.xml if the issue persists?

* Please also check if Rank Math SEO has any option to refresh the sitemap_index.xml.

Let me know how it goes,
Marsel

February 9, 2024 at 11:53 am #15285846

raduV

Hi Marsel,

Thank you, I've managed to clear all the caches, including the sitemap one. I've re-submitted the updated sitemaps to GSC.

Do I need to do anything else for Google to update the ranked keywords to the right link parameter?

February 9, 2024 at 12:18 pm #15286045

Marsel Nikolli

Hi,

From the WPML side you don't need to do anything else, the only thing I would suggest to keep an eye on Google indexing for any errors.

Let me know if you have any other question.

Regards,
Marsel

February 12, 2024 at 11:23 am #15292552

raduV

Thank you!