The 20-year-old Bayern Munich attacking midfielder, Jamal Musiala, has explained why he chose to represent Germany over England.
Of course, he spent the majority of his childhood in England, having been one of Chelsea former academy players.
Jamal is also related to Nigeria by the sound of his name. However, he represented the Young Three Lions at U15 (3 games), U16 (5 games), U17 (9 apps) and U21 (2 matches).
At the same time, he made some appearances for Germany U16 (2 games). Currently, Jamal plays for the German senior team, having played 20 games.
As a result, the youngster was able to score 10 goals during his youth career. However, he returned to Germany, teaming up with the Bavarians in 2019.
Having had flawless performances in his youth career. Musiala faced a tough decision, as regards choosing which country to represent at the senior level.
Since he spent most of his childhood in England, he was expected to play for the Three Lions.
Of course, his combination with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Mason Mount, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice would be amazing.
On the contrary, the 20-year-old attacking midfielder chose to play for the Germans. He has already made 20 appearances at the senior level.
Jamal Musiala, speaking on choosing between England and Germany, said:
“They both made it clear that they wanted me to play for them. It was a difficult decision, as I was born in Germany but most of my memories growing up are in England, both are a part of me. It was an incredible feeling to get my first Germany cap.
It felt right pulling that shirt on and representing my birth nation. I knew that I would made the right decision.
I still want England to do well, and I was so pleased for Jude [Bellingham] and his team-mates.
England have amazing young players, and it’s great to see them being given chances to shine.
Potential opportunities to play weren’t something that crossed my mind when making my decision. I didn’t look at which country had the better youngsters coming through and think.
Well, I’ll probably get more opportunities to play with Germany’. I chose Germany because it felt right”.
Obviously, Jamal has faced the Three Lions in many international matches. And he always dazzles brilliantly against them.
In all fairness, the young attacking midfielder would have been an amazing player under Gareth Southgate.
At the same time, he’s one of the best youngsters in Europe’s top-5 leagues, making waves in all competitions this campaign.
Jamal Musiala stats vs Paris Saint-GermainÂ
- 80 minutes
- 65 touches
- 27 final third passes (most)
- 12 attempted dribbles (most)
- 8 successful dribbles (most)
- 8 duels won
- 3 successful long balls
- 2 interceptions
The youngster single-handedly bossed all of PSG’s midfielders at Allianz Arena on Tuesday in the UEFA Champions League.
Frankly, Germany are so blessed and fortunate to have him in the squad. He’s a player with a high ceiling.
Jamal Musiala’s stats for Bayern Munich
- 111 appearances
- 30 goals
- 19 assists
Having been just 20-year-old, the player has already become an irreplaceable asset for the Bavarians.
Imagine his ability under Gareth Southgate in England’s midfield, particularly his combination with Jude Bellingham.
Top-5 goals and assists for Bayern Munich in 2022-2023
- Jamal Musiala – 27
- Serge Gnabry – 23
- Choupo Moting – 21
- Leory Sane – 18
- Thomas Muller – 16
Of course, the Three Lions have many brilliant and talented young players. So, no regret seeing Jamal playing for Germany.
On the other hand, if the 20-year-old AM had stayed at Cobham, playing for the West London club in the Premier League.
He’s definitely most likely to end up representing England at a senior level. He trained at Chelsea’s academy.
Simply put, Jamal Musiala claimed he chose Germany over England because it felt right.
However, it’s wise enough to say that playing for Bayern Munich played a major role in his decision.