Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Jens Castrop has opened up about his surprising decision to switch international allegiance and represent the South Korean national football team. In an exclusive interview with Kicker, Castrop shared the motivations behind this unexpected choice.
Background and Dual Citizenship
Born and raised in Germany, 21-year-old Jens Castrop holds dual citizenship, thanks to his South Korean heritage on his mother’s side. Having previously played for Germany’s youth teams without making a senior appearance, he was eligible to choose which senior national team to represent.
Reasons for the Switch
Castrop explained that his connection to South Korea has always been strong, and he is excited about embracing a new football culture. He described the decision as both personal and thoughtful, emphasizing his desire to explore his roots and help South Korea succeed on the international stage.
South Korea’s Recruitment Strategy
The switch aligns with South Korea’s active recruitment of players with Korean heritage from Europe. The national team’s coach believes that adding players like Castrop, who have experience in European clubs, will bolster the squad ahead of major international competitions.
Adapting to the New Challenge
Castrop acknowledged that adapting to South Korea’s style of play will require dedication and effort, but he is eager to embrace the change. He expressed his pride in representing South Korea and looks forward to training with his new teammates and learning from the coaching staff.
Support from Borussia Mönchengladbach
The club’s management fully supports Castrop’s decision, highlighting that gaining international experience will benefit his development. They intend to collaborate closely with the South Korean Football Association to facilitate a smooth transition for the midfielder.
Looking Ahead
Castrop has already begun preparing for his first call-up to the South Korean squad. Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching to see how this transfer will influence both his career trajectory and the future performance of South Korea’s national team.
Stay tuned for more updates from Questiqa Europe News.
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