Morocco face battle to secure Wael Mohya as Germany hand teenager first senior call-up

Moroccan-German midfielder Wael Mohya has received his first senior Germany call-up, presenting another challenge for Morocco as they look to secure the international future of one of Europe’s promising young talents.

Germany head coach Jurgen Klopp included the 17-year-old Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder in his 24-man squad announced on Thursday for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Serbia and the Netherlands.

Mohya is the only player receiving his first senior call-up in the latest selection, having previously represented Germany at several youth levels, including two appearances for the Under-21 team.

His performances in the Bundesliga have also attracted attention, with the attacking midfielder recording two goals and one assist in eight league appearances during the 2026/27 campaign.

Klopp explained that Mohya had earned the opportunity through his performances and revealed that he had spoken with the youngster and his family about his development.

However, the Germany coach has not guaranteed him playing time in either Nations League fixture, with the initial plan being to assess him during training and introduce him to the senior international environment.

Morocco risk losing another promising dual-nationality talent

Mohya’s call-up is significant for Morocco, given his family background and previous uncertainty over his international future.

Born in Mettmann, Germany, the teenager holds both German and Moroccan citizenship. His parents are Moroccan, with his father born in Morocco.

In an August interview with German newspaper BILD, Mohya admitted that he was yet to decide which country he wanted to represent at senior level.

“Honestly, I haven’t decided yet. There are discussions with both federations,” he said at the time.

The youngster also indicated that he wanted to concentrate on his club career before making a final decision about his international future.

Morocco have maintained contact with the midfielder as they seek to convince him to represent the Atlas Lions at senior level.

Germany call-up adds to Morocco’s international recruitment challenge

Mohya’s situation bears similarities to that of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Younes Ebnoutalib, another Moroccan-born talent who received a Germany call-up in September.

Ebnoutalib previously represented Morocco at youth level and confirmed that he had held discussions with the Moroccan football federation.

He later explained that a personal call from Klopp influenced his decision to represent Germany.

For Mohya, however, the latest invitation does not automatically settle his international future, as he is yet to make his senior debut for Germany.

The 17-year-old will now have an opportunity to impress Klopp during the upcoming international gathering.

Germany will face Serbia in Belgrade on November 13 before hosting the Netherlands in Berlin on November 16.