Joseph Nonge faces international choice between Belgium, DR Congo and Costa Rica

Stade Brestois midfielder Joseph Nonge is facing a decision over his international future, with Belgium, DR Congo and Costa Rica all potential destinations for the 21-year-old.

Nonge was born in Belgium to a father from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and a Costa Rican mother. He has represented Belgium throughout the youth ranks, including at Under-21 level, but has yet to commit his senior career to the Red Devils.

The player’s development began at Juventus before he moved on to Stade Brestois. Belgium have continued to monitor his progress at club level, although the competition for places in their senior squad could lead Nonge to consider his other international options.

Both the football federation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Costa Rican federation are following his situation closely. Each sees Nonge as a potential addition to midfield ahead of forthcoming continental fixtures and World Cup qualifying matches.

FIFA approval required

Nonge cannot change international allegiance automatically because of his official appearances for Belgium’s youth teams. To represent either the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Costa Rica’s Ticos, he would first need to submit a change-of-association request to FIFA.

The next stage of his career will therefore depend on both his personal choice and approval from the world governing body.