Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann addresses Ibrahim Maza’s decision to represent Algeria

Germany’s national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, has responded to Ibrahim Maza’s recent decision to play for Algeria instead of Germany, his birth country.

The 19-year-old Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, born in Berlin and a product of Hertha’s academy, chose Algeria in part due to strong competition in the German midfield, with players like Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala already ahead in the hierarchy. Maza said, “There is fierce competition for the playmaker position in Germany, especially with Wirtz and Musiala. That makes things complicated.”

Nagelsmann, speaking at a press conference, made it clear that he respects Maza’s choice: “We will often discuss this topic. He is a very good player. We accept his decision.” However, Nagelsmann emphasized that national team selection is about pride and desire: “It’s not about whether I want to play or not. It’s about being proud to represent your country, not just about your ranking in the squad. That feeling has to come first.”

He continued, “I only want to convince those truly eager to play for Germany. Otherwise, it makes no sense. If Maza’s heart tells him to play for Algeria, so be it. The national team is about more than football; it’s about heart, emotion, and representing your country.”