World champion questions rapid rise of Frankfurt's Younes Ebnoutalib

Als Stürmer bei Eintracht Frankfurt, Younes Ebnoutalib stepped onto the German national team line‑up in the bustling Augsburg arena, his eyes bright with the weight of a rapid ascent. The DFB-Team Weltmeister celebrated the moment, while Frankfurts Ebnoutalib became the latest surprise call‑up after just nine Bundesliga outings.

Veteran world champion doubts the swift promotion

Andreas Möller, the former world champion, voiced astonishment at the speed of the selection. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m thrilled for him, it’s sensational,” the 59‑year‑old said, “but after nine Bundesliga games? Previously you needed years to reach the national eleven.” He called the rapid rise an unusual Weg for the Frankfurter striker (Frankfurts Ebnoutalib).

The call‑up came under national coach Jürgen Klopp, who handed Ebnoutalib his debut in a 1‑1 draw with the Netherlands. After a half‑hour on the pitch, he replaced the injured Kai Havertz, marking his first cap for the German side.

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Just days later, in Augsburg against Greece, the young striker started the match, which ended in a 0‑1 defeat. Nach the game, analysts noted his composure despite the loss, highlighting his quick integration into the squad.

Within Eintracht Frankfurt, veteran forward Jonathan Burkardt forms a striking duo with the newcomer. Möller praised their versatility, stating, “The two are very hard to calculate. They can head, they can shoot, they can do one‑twos, they can run behind. Sometimes Burkardt makes the runs, then Ebnoutalib is more in focus, and vice versa.”

The episode underscores how quickly talent can be thrust onto the international stage, prompting debate over tradition versus merit in the German national team’s recruitment.