Morocco-born talent Wael Mohya chooses Germany U-20 despite Atlas Lions interest

Borussia Mönchengladbach forward Wael Mohya has opted to represent Germany at the Under-20 level despite reported efforts from Morocco to convince him to play for the Atlas Lions.

The 17-year-old is reported to have been approached by the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) as part of efforts to secure his international future with Morocco.

According to Moroccan sports outlet Al Mountakhab, Mohya has now decided to join Germany’s U-20 setup.

Mohya had considered Morocco

Mohya’s decision comes weeks after Moroccan forward Younes Ebnoutalib announced his decision to represent Germany’s senior national team.

German newspaper Bild reported that Mohya had previously rejected call-ups from Germany’s youth teams while considering a switch to Morocco.

The report also said his desire to represent Morocco predated the last World Cup, with preparations for a change of sporting nationality reportedly under way.

Despite those efforts, Al Mountakhab reports that Mohya has now opted to continue his international development with Germany.

Senior international future remains open

Mohya’s decision to play for Germany at youth level does not necessarily determine which senior national team he will represent in the future.

At 17, the Borussia Mönchengladbach forward remains eligible to make decisions about his international career as it develops.

According to the report, Mohya wants to assess how far he can progress with Germany before making decisions about his senior international future.

A key consideration is reportedly whether he can eventually earn an opportunity with the German senior national team.

Morocco face competition for young talent

Mohya’s decision adds to the ongoing competition between Morocco and Germany for players who are eligible to represent both countries.

For now, the young forward will continue his international development with Germany’s U-20 side, while his long-term senior international future remains open.