Tresoldi chases U21 scoring record as fans turn hostile

Nicolò Tresoldi, the DFB hopeful who netted a hat‑trick against Malta, is now within striking distance of the Germany U21 scoring record but has attracted a wave of criticism from supporters. The 16‑goal striker, born in Sardinia and naturalised in 2022, sparked a debate about his future national allegiance as the Nations League draws to a close.

Hat‑trick fuels record chase

In the final Nations League fixture, Tresoldi marked the path to Euro qualification with three goals against Malta, taking his U21 tally to 16. Only Pierre Littbarski’s 18‑goal mark remains out of reach, and the young forward is being touted as the ideal solution for the senior side’s goal‑scoring woes.

Supporters voice displeasure

Fans have reacted sharply, posting more than 400 comments on a Sky Instagram story about his “50:50” national‑team dilemma. One user wrote, “Either 100 % or nothing!” while another complained, “We don’t need someone who can’t decide.” The backlash highlights the pressure on a player who has yet to choose between Germany and Italy.

Coaches weigh in

Germany’s head coach Jürgen Klopp praised the overall performance of his squad after a 0‑0 draw with Greece, calling it “an incredible football match” and “top in every area”. Yet he acknowledged the lack of goals, noting that only three strikes came in four games and none from the many forwards used. Klopp later confirmed that the door remains open for Tresoldi, saying he would “leave him in peace” after their discussions.

Italy’s manager Roberto Mancini also engaged with the striker, expressing that he would have welcomed Tresoldi’s decision for Italy. Tresoldi replied that he gave Mancini “the same answer as to Klopp”, confirming that both coaches have shown patience while he weighs his options.

Florian Wirtz, acting as vice‑captain, echoed the fans’ frustration, stating, “In the end we simply didn’t score the damn goal,” referring to the missed chances that plagued the senior team in Thessaloniki.

Club‑wise, Tresoldi moved to Club Brügge in the summer of 2025 after leaving Hannover 96. In 67 appearances for the Belgian side he has scored 28 goals and provided nine assists, and he helped the club claim the league title, the Super Cup and the top‑scorer award last season.

Despite the accolades, Tresoldi remains undecided. He told reporters, “My heart is 50:50. Both countries mean a lot to me,” before adding that he will decide after the upcoming summer tournament.