Ebnoutalib Commits to Germany Under Klopp's Leadership

Jurgen Klopp’s first Germany squad has already claimed its first big decision – and its first fairy-tale.

Eintracht Frankfurt striker Ebnoutalib has committed his international future to Germany, turning down the chance to represent Morocco after a personal phone call from the new Bundestrainer.

“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 with 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 Frankfurt, where he has already scored four goals. Klopp saw that form up close during a visit to the club’s training ground earlier this month. That trip planted the first seeds of what has now become a full international switch.

The defining moment came on a quiet day off.

Ebnoutalib was on a sports field when his phone lit up with Klopp’s number. At first, he thought it might just be a courtesy call, a quick check-in. It was anything but.

“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, still sounding slightly stunned by the speed of it all.

Klopp effect tips the balance

Morocco were not passive observers in this story. The Moroccan Football Federation had held talks, and national team coach Mohamed Ouahbi had already spoken with the forward. The pull of his heritage was real.

But Klopp’s intervention changed everything.

“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 stressed.

Emotionally, it was a tight call. Professionally, the chance to work under Klopp proved decisive.

The coach’s reputation for high pressing, relentless energy and emotional connection with his players clearly resonated.

“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,” Ebnoutalib said.

Klopp’s blueprint was laid out from day one.

“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.”

A giant squad, a huge chance

Ebnoutalib’s name sits inside a sprawling 44-man experimental squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures. On paper, it is a long list. In reality, for a player who not long ago was miles from the international radar, it is a landmark.

The atmosphere in camp has already left a mark on him. He spoke of an intensity that feels different, shaped by Klopp’s aura and his history of success. Respect, he said, was instant and total.

Germany now gear up for a run of Nations League games, including a headline meeting with the Netherlands. For Ebnoutalib, that match carries a very specific weight: a possible first senior cap, the moment that would officially tie him to the DFB and close the door on Morocco for good.

From the Regionalliga to a potential debut against the Dutch under Jurgen Klopp – the next step in his story will be played out on one of the biggest stages international football can offer.