Wael Mohja called up by Germany — could become youngest international in 116 years

Seventeen-year-old Wael Mohja has been included in Germany's senior squad and could write a rare piece of national-team history. The Borussia Mönchengladbach forward received a call-up from new coach Jürgen Klopp for the Nations League fixtures against Serbia and the Netherlands.

Mohja was born on 31 December 2008 in Mettmann, near Düsseldorf, and joined Borussia Mönchengladbach at eight years old. He won the German U17 championship in 2025 and shortly after made his Bundesliga debut. At 16 years and 347 days he became the youngest player ever to appear for Mönchengladbach in the German top flight, surpassing the previous record held by Marco Marin. He also attracted attention by scoring his first Bundesliga goal against Bayern Munich; to date he has 23 Bundesliga appearances and four goals.

Klopp explained his decision to call the youngster, noting: "There are not many 17-year-olds currently playing in the Bundesliga. That in itself is remarkable, but he really is playing well."

Debut would be historically young

If Mohja makes his debut against Serbia on 13 November in Belgrade he would be 17 years and 317 days old. That would edge out Youssoufa Moukoko, who debuted for Germany at 17 years and 361 days, and would make Mohja the youngest German international in the post‑World War II era.

On the all-time list only two players from the early 20th century are younger: Willy Baumgärtner, who debuted in 1908 at 17 years and 104 days, and Marius Hiller, who played in 1910 at 17 years and 241 days. Mohja is of Moroccan heritage and his contract with Mönchengladbach runs until 2028.

Photo: Bayern & Germany @iMiaSanMia (X)