Jurgen Klopp’s Call Secures Niels Ebnoutalib for Germany
In the tug-of-war of international allegiance, a single phone call decided it.
Eintracht Frankfurt striker Niels Ebnoutalib has committed his international future to Germany after a direct approach from new national team boss Jurgen Klopp, turning down the chance to represent Morocco.
“There were talks with Morocco. But when Jurgen Klopp calls, you can’t say no,” Ebnoutalib admitted.
It’s a remarkable twist in a story that, not long ago, was unfolding far from the spotlight. Just two years back, Ebnoutalib was grinding away in the Regionalliga with FC Giessen. Now he’s walking into a Germany camp run by one of the most influential managers of his generation.
His electric start to the season with Eintracht Frankfurt – four goals already – put him firmly on Klopp’s radar. The coach’s visit to Eintracht’s training ground earlier this month planted the first seeds of what has now become a full commitment to Die Mannschaft.
The decisive moment arrived on what was supposed to be a quiet day off. Ebnoutalib was on a sports field when his phone lit up.
Klopp’s number.
“I didn't think anything of it. I thought maybe he just wanted to ask how I was doing. After the phone call, tears came to my eyes. I thought about where I was just a few years ago and that it's crazy that all the hard work has paid off,” he said.
From Regionalliga pitches to a 44-man Germany squad in the UEFA Nations League – the leap is staggering. Yet inside the camp, Ebnoutalib quickly realised this was no sentimental call-up. The intensity is real, the expectations clear.
He spoke of the atmosphere around the national team, and how Klopp’s presence has instantly reshaped the environment. Respect isn’t requested; it’s already there.
“The impression is very positive. He is, of course, someone who brings a great deal of experience and already has a certain presence because of what he has achieved over the years. So, naturally, you have a great deal of respect for him. But he was very nice and very likeable in the conversations,” the striker explained.
On the training pitch, the Klopp blueprint is unmistakable. High pressing. Relentless energy. Power in every phase.
“He is already very well known for the way he wants to play football. With high pressing, with a lot of energy and power. He has already fired us up. I think that’s what he is known for, that he is very good at reaching people and getting them on board. He has certainly got us in the right mindset,” Ebnoutalib said.
Germany now gear up for a demanding run of Nations League fixtures, headlined by a clash with the Netherlands. For Ebnoutalib, those games carry extra weight. A first senior cap would not only crown his rise but formally lock in his international future with the DFB.
The decision comes after contact from both sides of his heritage. Ebnoutalib confirmed he had spoken with Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi, yet the pull of Germany under Klopp proved decisive.
“I spoke with him, but it wasn't an intensive exchange. I love both countries; they are both my countries of origin. I will definitely continue to support Morocco,” he said.
The choice is made. The shirt is picked. Now the question is simple: how far can this late-rising striker go under Klopp’s demanding gaze?
