"Project of the heart"

Surprise! DFB kicker will play for Syria in future

Mahmoud Dahoud (left) changes association.(Bild: AFP or licensors)

This is a real surprise: Mahmoud Dahoud is turning his back on the German national team! The VfB Stuttgart midfielder will play for the Syrian national team in future.

Despite playing two senior games for the DFB team under former national coach Joachim Löw, the 28-year-old has now opted for the country of his birth and informed the Syrian association of his decision, Sky reported. The switch was possible because Dahoud had not featured in any competitive matches for the DFB squad.

Mahmoud Dahoud (l.) with former national coach Hansi Flick.(Bild: AFP or licensors)

"Project of the heart"
Dahoud on Sky: "I was very quickly taken with the idea of playing for Syria. Syria is my family's country of origin. I learned early on from my family how privileged we are to live in Germany and how important it is to bring joy to the people of Syria. I would like to do that and am really looking forward to this project that is close to my heart."

"Germany is my home"
He continues: "I grew up in Germany, have spent my whole life here and was also proud to play in the national youth teams and the senior national team. Germany is my home."

Dahoud could make his debut for Syria (FIFA rank 89) as early as March, when two matches against Myanmar are on the agenda. The "Red Eagles" lost to Iran at this year's Asian Championship and have never been to a World Cup.