Nmecha, Nigerian-born sticker, says he picked Germany over Nigeria because the German coach, Stefan Kuntz, convinced him
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigerian-born German striker, Lukas Nmecha, joined the German national team during this international break, putting paid to his dream of representing Nigeria.
He was born in Hamburg, Germany to a Nigerian father before moving to England at the age of seven. Therefore, he is qualified to represent any of the three countries.
The 22-year-old was being considered by Genort Rohr and he represented England at the youth level but has now opted to dump both countries for Germany.
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He made his decision to represent Germany known while speaking to a Bundesliga media channel.
According to Nmecha, his decision to play for Germany ahead of Nigeria was born out of the fact that he grew up there and has more connections with the German players.
He also said the German Coach was able to convince him that it was the right choice to make. He added that fellow Nigerian-born German player, Adeyemi, is succeeding in the team.
“I was born here, I just have more of a connection with the German national team.
“Also, at the time, the coach Stefan Kuntz really convinced me and showed me that there is a path for me.
“I think that has really come to show. You see players like Adeyemi and guys like that, who are managing to get into that first-team squad.
“And doing well at that level. I have played with those guys, and I know where I stand in terms of quality compared to those players.” Nmecha said.
The Wolfsburg player also said he last visited Nigeria at age seven, and that he will be visiting the country whenever the opportunity presents itself.
He added, “Yeah, my dad has got a lot of family out there. It’s been a really long time since I have been there. I think I was seven years old the last time I went.
“But it’s definitely a thing on the bucket list when I do get a good amount of time off. That will definitely be somewhere I will be going soon.”