Germany World Cup squad: Borussia Dortmund’s 17-year-old forward Youssoufa Moukoko called up for Qatar
Borussia Dortmund’s 17-year-old forward Youssoufa Moukoko and Southampton defender Armel Bella-Kotchap have been picked for Germany’s 26-man World Cup squad; Germany play Spain, Japan and Costa Rica as the four-time World Cup winners begin their campaign on November 23
Germany handed a surprise call-up to Borussia Dortmund’s 17-year-old forward Youssoufa Moukoko for their 26-man World Cup squad, while Southampton defender Armel Bella-Kotchap was also included.
Germany head coach Hansi Flick announced his 26-man squad for the tournament in Qatar, with the teenager Moukoko, who has scored six times in the Bundesliga this season, selected following the absence of the injured Timo Werner.
Werder Bremen forward Niclas Fullkrug also earned a spot after a stellar season with 10 goals so far.
Saints centre-back Bella-Kotchap is one of four Premier League players included in the squad along with West Ham defender Thilo Kehrer, Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan and Chelsea forward Kai Havertz.
There is also a sensational return for 30-year-old midfielder Mario Gotze, who is back in the national team after five years out.
Gotze, who scored the winning goal for Germany in the 2014 World Cup final, is back to his best after returning to the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt this season.
“Mario Gotze is there. 2017 was the last time. Mario is totally happy and so are we to have him. It gives us many options,” Flick told a news conference.
source: skysports.com
