German winger Jamie Leweling has disclosed the reason behind his decision to reject a call-up to the Black Stars and commit his international career to Germany.
Leweling, who has a German mother and a Ghanaian father, was eligible to play for both countries but opted for the Europeans over the four-time African champions.
On Monday, October 14, 2024, the VfB Stuttgart winger made his debut for Germany and got on the scoresheet.
His goal proved vital as it helped Germany secure a 1-0 victory over the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League.
Speaking to the press after the game, Leweling disclosed that he picked Germany over Ghana because he feels more connected to his mother’s land.
When asked in the post-match interview, he said, “Quite simply: because I was born and grew up here. I am German!”
Leweling also opened up about the experience of making his German debut, noting that he was nervous when he found out that he was going to start the game.
He explained that the nervousness gave way to excitement once he appeared on the pitch.
“I found out this morning that I was starting. Of course, I was nervous. But in the end, it’s football, 11 against 11. On the pitch, the nervousness was gone. I’m very happy,” he said.
In October 2020, then Ghana coach CK Akonnor handed him a call-up, but the winger rejected it.
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