Adel Mustafi debuts for Germany U16 after five North Macedonia caps
Union Berlin prospect Adel Mustafi made his Germany U16 debut in a 4:1 friendly win over Poland, having earlier played five times for North Macedonia youth sides.
Adel Mustafi made his debut for Germany's under-16 national team in a friendly against Poland a few days ago, a match Germany won 4:1. The defender, who is part of Union Berlin's youth setup, wore the German colours for the first time after previously appearing for North Macedonia at youth level.
Before switching allegiance, Mustafi recorded five appearances for North Macedonia's youth teams. His family originates from the Debar region, and until a few months ago there had been a clear wish for him to represent North Macedonia.
Club and family influence
According to club sources and his parents' recommendation, Mustafi opted to accept the invitation from the German federation. The move follows encouragement at club level and a decision by the player and his family to pursue the path with Germany's youth programme.
The case echoes an earlier example from the Mustafi family: Shkodran Mustafi, born to a family with roots in Gostivar, went on to become a World Cup winner with Germany.
For North Macedonia, the episode highlights a recurring problem: the country has limited leverage when promising young players have a genuine option to choose between national teams.
Photo: press material from the event
