Eintracht Frankfurt striker Younes Ben Taleb has revealed why he chose to represent Germany instead of Morocco after being included in Jurgen Klopp's squad during the current international break.
Ben Taleb said that there had been discussions with Morocco, but explained that the opportunity to work with Jurgen Klopp played a major role in his decision.
"There were negotiations with Morocco, but when Jurgen Klopp calls you, you cannot say no," Ben Taleb said.
Ben Taleb Was Eligible to Represent Morocco
The striker had been eligible to represent Morocco because he holds both German and Moroccan citizenship.
He had also previously represented Morocco at youth level before making his decision regarding his senior international career.
By choosing Germany, Ben Taleb now has the opportunity to begin his senior international career with the German national team.
Klopp Played a Role in Ben Taleb's Decision
Jurgen Klopp personally played a role in convincing the Eintracht Frankfurt striker to choose Germany.
The German coach met Ben Taleb during a visit to the club's training session earlier in September, giving the player an opportunity to discuss his international future.
Ben Taleb was subsequently included in Klopp's Germany squad, putting him in contention to make his senior international debut during the Nations League matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo Is Ben Taleb's Role Model
Ben Taleb also revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo is his role model in football, highlighting the Portuguese star's influence as he begins a new chapter with the German national team.
The revelation offers another insight into the young striker's football inspirations as he takes his first steps toward an international career with Germany.
Why did Younes Ben Taleb choose Germany?
Ben Taleb said that the opportunity to work with Jurgen Klopp was a major factor in his decision, despite previous discussions with Morocco.
Could Ben Taleb have represented Morocco?
Yes. He holds German and Moroccan citizenship and had previously represented Morocco at youth level.
What role did Jurgen Klopp play in the decision?
Klopp met Ben Taleb during a visit to Eintracht Frankfurt's training session and played a role in convincing him to choose Germany.
Has Ben Taleb made his Germany debut?
He has joined the German squad and is now in contention to make his senior international debut.
Who is Ben Taleb's football role model?
Ben Taleb has identified Cristiano Ronaldo as his football role model.
