Ryan Naderi's International Decision: Czech Republic, Bulgaria, or Germany?
Ryan Naderi has barely settled into life at Rangers, yet his next big decision might not be about club football at all. It could be about which country he chooses to represent.
According to Bild, the 23-year-old striker is close to a call-up from the Czech national team, with sporting director Pavel Nedved already making contact. The interest is serious. So is the competition.
Naderi’s story is tailor‑made for a modern international battle. Born in Dresden to a Czech mother and a Bulgarian father, he sits at the crossroads of three federations. Bulgaria’s association has already tried to lure him in the past. He turned them down. The report suggests he is more receptive to the Czech Republic.
Germany, though, still lurks in the background.
With Jürgen Klopp now in charge of the national team and preparing his first extended squad, any hint of DFB potential demands a quick decision. If Klopp sees a long‑term option in Naderi, he cannot afford to wait while others move first.
Passport race against the clock
If Naderi opts for the Czech Republic, the paperwork becomes the next hurdle. He would need to apply for a Czech passport before pulling on the shirt. That process, and its timing, could dictate how quickly he steps onto the international stage.
Right now, there is no clarity on whether he could be registered in time for the upcoming Nations League fixtures. The Czechs face a brutal run: Croatia, England twice, and Spain. It is the kind of schedule that exposes weaknesses but can also fast‑track a new centre‑forward into the spotlight.
From Dresden prospect to Old Firm stage
Naderi’s rise has not been explosive, but it has been relentless.
He came through the youth ranks at Dynamo Dresden, then left at 17 for Borussia Mönchengladbach, a move that signalled real belief in his ceiling. The professional breakthrough finally arrived in 2024 with Hansa Rostock in the 3. Liga, where he delivered numbers that demanded attention: 13 goals and nine assists in 45 appearances.
At 1.94 metres, he is every inch the classic centre‑forward. A traditional frame, but not a one‑dimensional game.
Rangers moved decisively last winter, paying a 3. Liga record fee of €5.5 million to bring him to Glasgow. It already looks like smart business. In 21 outings for the club, Naderi has produced six goals and six assists, adapting quickly to the demands and intensity of Scottish football.
Last weekend, he stepped into the glare of the Old Firm and did not blink. Rangers beat Celtic 3-0, with Naderi setting up one goal and playing a key role in the build-up to another. On a day when careers can shrink or grow in 90 minutes, his reputation swelled.
Klopp watching, decisions looming
While the Czech Republic and Bulgaria angle for his commitment, Germany’s schedule rolls on. In the upcoming international window, Klopp’s side face the Netherlands, Serbia and Greece twice. The new national coach plans to name an unusually large squad, using the games to experiment and spring a few surprises.
That opens a door. It also sets a deadline.
If Germany want to keep Naderi within their reach, they will have to act before Nedved and the Czech federation close the deal. The striker’s next move will not just shape his international future. It could alter the attacking options of three national teams for the next decade.
