Werder Bremen defender Mitchell Weiser has expressed his desire to represent Algeria at the international level, citing a stronger chance of competing in major tournaments with the North African nation. The 30-year-old, who is yet to make a senior appearance for Germany despite featuring for their youth teams, believes aligning with Algeria could offer him the opportunity to fulfill his ambitions on the global stage.
Weiser, a versatile player capable of operating as a right-back, midfielder, or winger, is eligible to play for Algeria through his mother’s heritage.
He revealed that the decision to potentially switch allegiances has been on his mind for some time, and he now feels it is the right moment to make the move.
“I have always had the option in mind, as I have the luxury of theoretically being able to play football for two countries,” Weiser said in an interview.
The switch could soon become official after Sky Germany reported that the Werder Bremen player has received clearance from FIFA to change federations, making him eligible to represent the Algerian national team, also known as the Fennec Foxes.
Weiser emphasized that playing in a major international tournament has always been a significant goal in his career, and he believes his chances of achieving that ambition are higher with Algeria.
Germany’s depth of talent in his position has left him on the sidelines of the national team, and with no senior caps for Die Mannschaft, Weiser is looking to seize the opportunity to play on the international stage with Algeria.
“It was always a big goal for me to play in a major championship, and I believe that I have a better chance with Algeria,” Weiser explained. “I want to achieve as much as possible in my career.”
Weiser’s move to Algeria could strengthen the Fennec Foxes, who have consistently been one of Africa’s top teams.
Algeria won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2019 and continues to boast a strong squad capable of competing at the highest level in African and global football.
For Weiser, the potential switch represents a fresh start and the chance to make an impact on the international stage, something that has eluded him so far in his career.
With FIFA’s approval reportedly secured, all signs point toward Weiser donning the green and white of Algeria in the near future as he looks to take a key step forward in his football journey.
As he awaits the final formalities of the switch, Weiser’s focus will remain on performing for Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga, while eagerly anticipating the opportunity to join the ranks of the Algerian national team.
