Jamal Musiala will play for Germany at the 2026 World Cup, five years after snubbing England.
The 23-year-old had risen through the Three Lions’ youth ranks earlier in his career.

What happened to Jamal Musiala's England career?

He commenced his international career at under-15 level and rose through the ages up until the under-21s, albeit with a brief spell with Germany’s under-16s sandwiched in between.
But Musiala eventually declared for Germany in 2021, the playmaker being eligible through his mother.

Why did Jamal Musiala choose Germany over England?

Musiala explained his decision, saying: “I have a heart for Germany and a heart for England. Both hearts will keep on beating. I’ve thought about this question a lot. What is best for my future? Where do I have more chances to play?”
He added: “In the end, I just listened to the feeling that over a long period of time kept telling me that it was the right decision to play for Germany, the land I was born in.”

What's next for Jamal Musiala at the 2026 World Cup?

Having suffered a serious knee injury last summer that saw him miss a large chunk of last season, Musiala has now recovered in time to secure a spot in Die Mannschaft's squad for the World Cup.
And former Bayern Munich chief Matthias Sammer has backed him to prove to be one of the nation’s best players in the USA.
Sammer said: ”I’m absolutely convinced that Jamal Musiala will improve significantly as the tournament unfolds. Maybe not in the first match, maybe in the second - Then comes the knockout stage and suddenly he’ll explode.”
He added: “Even at 95 per cent, Jamal is still one of the most extraordinary players on the planet. I’m incredibly happy he’s back and will help us.”
Musiala will be aiming to help Germany to their fifth World Cup title this summer, while England continue their long search for a second major trophy.
Since making his debut in 2021, Musiala has gone on to make 42 appearances for the German national team and has scored nine goals.
Matthias Sammer believes Musiala's return will be a significant boost for Germany.
The coaching staff and his teammates should make him feel: ‘Yes, we know you’re not at 100% yet, but you will be. Join in, we trust you and you trust us.’
Musiala's recovery from injury has been a long process, but he is now ready to play a key role for Germany.