[EXCLUSIVE] Ihlas Bebou: Unveiling a Rising Togolese Star in Germany

Ihlas Bebou: The Calm Rising Star with Eyes on Recovery and the Future

At just 20, Ihlas Bebou exudes a calm confidence beyond his years. The young attacking midfielder, currently turning heads at Fortuna Düsseldorf in Germany’s second division, is steadily carving out his place in professional football after a difficult period plagued by injuries.

Born in Aledjo, Togo, Bebou left his homeland at the age of 11 to settle in Germany with his father and sister. Since then, his football journey has taken him from youth teams like Garather SV and VfB Hilden to Fortuna Düsseldorf’s U18 side and now the senior squad.

“This season has had its ups and downs,” Bebou told us. “We probably won’t meet our objectives because of some poor performances, but the most important thing is staying in Bundesliga 2.”

Bebou’s progress has not come without setbacks. Two major injuries — a fracture followed by knee cartilage damage — sidelined him for nearly a year. But he has returned stronger and is now eager to simply enjoy playing again.

“I feel good now,” he said. “After everything, I’m just focused on staying healthy and finishing the season strong.”

Still relatively unknown in international circles, Bebou has started to attract attention from the Togolese Football Federation (FTF), who are monitoring his development.

“It would be an honour to play for Togo, just as it would be for Germany, where I’ve grown as a player,” Bebou said. “But for now, I’m not thinking too much about national teams. I just want to get back to enjoying football.”

He does, however, have a close connection with the Togo national side through midfielder Prince Ségbéfia.

“Prince is a good friend. We talk often,” Bebou revealed.

When it comes to inspiration, there’s no hesitation.

“Ronaldinho is the best for me. He’s my idol — I try to model my game on him.”

As the season nears its end, Bebou’s goals remain clear: stay healthy, stay grounded, and look ahead.

“What I want most is to stay fit and keep playing through the end of the season. After that, I hope to truly launch my career next season.”

If his talent and determination continue to align, that launch may come sooner than expected.