Younes Ben Taleb reveals Jürgen Klopp influenced decision to choose Germany over Morocco

Eintracht Frankfurt forward Younes Ben Taleb has revealed that new Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp played a major role in his decision to represent the German national team instead of Morocco.

The 23-year-old attacker had been in contact with Morocco coach Mohamed Wahbi over a possible opportunity with the Atlas Lions, but Klopp’s arrival at the helm of the German national team ultimately influenced his decision.

Ben Taleb admitted that receiving a call from one of the most renowned coaches in world football was difficult to turn down.

“When Klopp calls for you, you have to go,” Ben Taleb said.

The Frankfurt striker expressed his excitement at joining the German setup as Klopp prepares for his first competitive matches in charge.

“It is absolutely wonderful—a truly great feeling,” Ben Taleb said. “Klopp is one of the best coaches in the world. And yes, there is definitely a positive energy.”

Despite choosing Germany, Ben Taleb stressed that his connection with Morocco remains strong, insisting that he continues to regard both countries as home.

“I love both countries; both represent my home, and I will certainly continue to wish Morocco all the best,” he added.

Klopp has already made his expectations clear to the players as he begins reshaping the German national team.

According to Ben Taleb, the former Liverpool manager wants his players to embrace the responsibility of wearing the Germany shirt while maintaining their commitment even when performances or results do not go according to plan.

“He simply wants us to be proud to represent the German national team and to give our best, even when things aren’t going perfectly,” Ben Taleb explained.

Klopp has split his squad into two groups for the upcoming international fixtures, with Ben Taleb included in the group scheduled to face the Netherlands on Thursday before taking on Greece on Sunday.

The forward could have an opportunity to make his senior international debut, particularly given the limited number of recognised strikers in his group alongside Kai Havertz.

However, Ben Taleb remains focused on earning his opportunity rather than assuming that he will feature.

“I don’t know anything about that yet,” he said. “I’m simply trying to give my best, and I hope to get plenty of playing time.”

His impressive club form could strengthen his chances of making an appearance.

Ben Taleb has scored four goals in four Bundesliga matches for Frankfurt at the start of the new season, establishing himself as one of the club’s most productive attacking players.

Klopp, who succeeded Julian Nagelsmann as Germany coach, is now beginning the task of rebuilding the national team following their disappointing exit from last summer’s World Cup.

For Ben Taleb, the upcoming fixtures could therefore provide an opportunity to begin a new international chapter with Germany after deciding against representing Morocco.