Former Germany international Mahmoud Dahoud has chosen to represent the Syrian national team

As reported by Sky Germany, Stuttgart midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud has elected to change his national elegance and will represent the Syrian national team.

In 2020, Dahoud was called up to the German national team and made his debut against Turkey under Joachim Löw. Having featured just twice for the four-time World Cup winners, Dahoud considers his future to now be with the Syrian national team.

Despite this, the on-loan Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder has been part of the Germany set-up from the U-18s to the U-21s, where, with the latter, he won the 2021 European Championships. 

Regardless, due to his two appearances for Germany’s senior side coming in friendly matches, the former Borussia Dortmund playmaker is eligible to change associations. 

As per the report, it is understood that Dahoud has already informed the Syrian association of his decision. Speaking to Sky Germany in regard to his decision, Dahoud explained:

“I was very quickly taken with the idea of playing for Syria. I grew up in Germany, spent my whole life here, and was proud to play in the youth national teams and the senior national team. Germany is my home.”

“Syria is my family’s country of origin and, ultimately, also my birth country. I learned from my family early on how privileged we are to live in Germany and how important it is at the same time to bring joy to the people in Syria. I’m happy to do this, and I’m really looking forward to this project that’s close to my heart.”

However, it is not yet clear when Dahoud will make his debut for Syria, but with two matches against Myanmar in March, the 28-year-old could make his return to international football. Nevertheless, the big goal for Syria and Dahoud is to reach the World Cup finals, something they have never previously been able to achieve.

GGFN | Will Shopland