Ebnoutalib Chooses Germany Over Morocco After Klopp's Call
Jurgen Klopp didn’t just win a recruitment battle. He ended it with a single phone call.
Eintracht Frankfurt striker Ebnoutalib has committed his international future to Germany after direct contact from the new Bundestrainer, turning down the chance to represent Morocco, the country of his heritage.
“There were talks with Morocco. But when Jurgen Klopp calls, you can’t say no,” Ebnoutalib admitted.
From Regionalliga to Die Mannschaft
Two years ago, he was playing in the Regionalliga for FC Giessen. Now he is walking into a Germany camp led by one of the most influential coaches of his generation.
His rise has been fuelled by a blistering start to the season with Eintracht, where he has already scored four goals. That form, and a visit from Klopp to Frankfurt’s training ground earlier this month, changed everything.
The decisive moment came on what was supposed to be a quiet day off. Ebnoutalib was on a sports field when his phone lit up with Klopp’s number.
“I didn't think anything of it. I thought maybe he just wanted to ask how I was doing. After the phone call, tears came to my eyes. I thought about where I was just a few years ago and that it's crazy that all the hard work has paid off,” he said.
The fairy-tale suddenly had a new chapter: the Germany national team.
Klopp’s aura, Germany’s pull
Once inside the camp, the step up was obvious. So was the hierarchy.
Ebnoutalib spoke of an intense atmosphere and a squad that has already fallen in line behind Klopp’s reputation and record. The respect, he said, is automatic.
“The impression is very positive. He is, of course, someone who brings a great deal of experience and already has a certain presence because of what he has achieved over the years. So, naturally, you have a great deal of respect for him. But he was very nice and very likeable in the conversations,” the striker explained.
On the training pitch, the Klopp blueprint is instantly recognisable: high pressing, relentless running, football played at full throttle.
“He is already very well known for the way he wants to play football. With high pressing, with a lot of energy and power. He has already fired us up. I think that’s what he is known for, that he is very good at reaching people and getting them on board. He has certainly got us in the right mindset,” Ebnoutalib said.
A place in Klopp’s 44
His selection in Klopp’s expansive 44-man experimental squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures is more than a curiosity. It is a statement that his story now belongs on the international stage.
Germany are building towards a demanding run of Nations League games, including a standout clash with the Netherlands. For Ebnoutalib, that match could be the moment everything becomes official: a first senior cap, and with it, his future tied to the DFB.
The tug-of-war for his allegiance began earlier. Morocco, aware of his potential and heritage, opened talks. National team coach Mohamed Ouahbi made contact, but the dialogue never deepened.
“I spoke with him, but it wasn't an intensive exchange. I love both countries; they are both my countries of origin. I will definitely continue to support Morocco,” Ebnoutalib said.
The emotional bond remains. The professional decision is made.
Germany offered Klopp, a clear plan, and a chance to write his name into a new era for Die Mannschaft. For a striker who has sprinted from the Regionalliga to the national team in two years, the next step now depends on what he does when that first cap is finally within reach.
