Casablanca– The Eintracht Frankfurt forward revealed that a call from Germany coach Jurgen Klopp played a decisive role in his decision to commit his international future to the German national team.
Ebnoutalib, who is eligible to represent Morocco through his heritage, confirmed that he had been in contact with the Moroccan Football Federation before receiving Germany’s approach.
“There were talks with Morocco. But when Jurgen Klopp calls, you can’t say no,” Ebnoutalib said.
The 23-year-old’s decision comes after a rapid rise that has taken him from Germany’s lower leagues to the Bundesliga and now into the senior national team setup.
Ebnoutalib was playing for Regionalliga side FC Giessen just two years ago before joining Eintracht Frankfurt. His performances at club level, including four goals at the start of the current season, helped put him on Germany’s radar.
He recalled the moment Klopp contacted him, saying he initially did not attach much importance to the unexpected call.
“I didn’t think anything of it. I thought maybe he just wanted to ask how I was doing,” Ebnoutalib said.
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The significance of the call soon became clear, however, with the striker describing the moment as an emotional one.
“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 added.
Ebnoutalib has now joined Germany’s squad as he looks to make his senior international debut and begin his international career with the four-time world champions.
He also spoke about his first impressions of working with Klopp, describing the coach as experienced and approachable.
“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,” Ebnoutalib said.
“But he was very nice and very likeable in the conversations,” he added.
Ebnoutalib’s decision closes the door, at least for now, on the possibility of seeing the Frankfurt forward wear Morocco’s colors, with the striker instead beginning his international journey with Germany.
