Moroccan-German teenager Wael Mahya explains decision to join Germany’s national team

Moroccan-German midfielder Wael Mahya, who has been called up by Germany for its UEFA Nations League matches against Serbia and the Netherlands, said coach Jürgen Klopp had “convinced me with his ideas,” while stressing that Morocco remains part of his family.

The 17-year-old Borussia Mönchengladbach player received his first call-up to Germany’s senior national team after previously representing the country at youth level. However, he was not included in the squad that defeated Serbia 3-1 on Friday in the fifth round of the competition. German media have also reported that he is unlikely to feature in the squad for the decisive match against the Netherlands.

Klopp has praised the teenager’s talent and confidence, saying he wanted to observe his conduct both on and off the pitch and assess his abilities during training.

Speaking to German newspaper Bild, Mahya said he had never concealed Morocco’s interest in securing his international allegiance.

“My parents are from there, and Morocco is part of my family. I have great respect for that,” he said.

However, Mahya said the way Klopp spoke to him left little doubt about accepting Germany’s invitation.

“He convinced me with his ideas, and I immediately realized that he was a great person. I am looking forward to working with him on the pitch over the coming months, and I am convinced that he will also help me develop and improve,” he said.

Klopp, who was appointed to his position through the period following the 2030 World Cup, has spoken about building a younger squad and prioritizing long-term development.

Mahya described the discussions surrounding his international future as “very good, honest and open,” adding that his parents took part in the conversations, which he considered important.

The midfielder said Klopp had made no promises or guarantees about his future with Germany, instead telling him that he would have to earn his place through hard work.

“He told me that everything here has to be earned through my own efforts, and that I have to deserve every opportunity I get,” Mahya said.

Reflecting on the difficulty of choosing between two national teams, the teenager said such decisions were not easy and that every player should be given enough time to make up their mind.