Wael Mohya left out of Germany squad for Serbia clash after choosing Mannschaft

Wael Mohya’s first Germany call-up has ended in disappointment after the 17-year-old was omitted from the Mannschaft’s matchday squad for Friday’s Nations League trip to Serbia.

The Borussia Monchengladbach attacking midfielder was among the 24 players initially selected by Germany manager Jurgen Klopp, but only 23 could be included on the official team sheet. According to BILD, Mohya was the player left out.

Despite that decision, Mohya will travel with the squad to Belgrade and remain part of the group, although he will not be able to play. He had been hoping to make his senior international debut during this gathering after choosing Germany ahead of Morocco.

Mohya’s international future has been the subject of considerable attention in both countries in recent weeks. Born in Mettmann, near Dusseldorf, to Moroccan parents, he is eligible to represent either Germany or Morocco.

The teenager had already played for Germany at youth level, including for the Under-21 side, before receiving his first senior call-up from Klopp at the beginning of November. The Germany manager said he had spoken several times with Mohya and his family, an approach that appeared to influence the player’s decision.

Mohya’s omission is particularly frustrating given his impressive start to the season with Borussia Monchengladbach. He has scored three goals and provided one assist in the Bundesliga campaign, notable figures for a player of his age.

He could still have an opportunity to make his senior debut in Germany’s second match of the international period, against the Netherlands on Monday. However, the Serbia fixture appeared to offer a more suitable setting for his first appearance than that higher-profile contest.

The setback does not end Mohya’s prospects of representing Morocco. Under the regulations, he remains free to change allegiance as long as he has not played in an official match for Germany. Even an appearance in such a game would not necessarily prevent a switch, although certain conditions would then apply, including a three-year waiting period.

For now, Mohya remains eligible to play for Morocco. However, having only recently committed to Germany, an immediate reversal appears unlikely. It may take several disappointments of this kind before the young player considers changing his decision.

There is a precedent involving Mohamed Ihattaren, who was called up by the Netherlands without playing before eventually choosing Morocco several years later. It is nevertheless too early to say whether Mohya will follow a similar path.