Younes Ebnoutalib: Could Jurgen Klopp Finally Solve Germany’s Striker Problem?
Germany have spent roughly a decade searching for a reliable goalscorer to lead the line. Since the international retirements of Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose, the national team have struggled to find a consistent striker capable of delivering goals at the highest level.
The problem has persisted despite a long list of alternatives. Kai Havertz, Serge Gnabry, Niclas Füllkrug and Deniz Undav have all been used in central attacking roles, but none has managed to establish himself as a truly prolific No. 9 for Germany. Thomas Muller was also frequently deployed as a false nine, further highlighting the national team’s difficulty in finding a traditional centre-forward.
Germany’s need for a classic No. 9 is particularly evident when compared with the model provided by Bayern Munich. Even when Bayern have creative midfielders and explosive wingers, the presence of a specialist goalscorer remains crucial to converting possession and chances into goals.
Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane are obvious examples of the type of striker Germany have lacked. Perhaps Jurgen Klopp could be part of the solution.
During a recent visit to Eintracht Frankfurt, Klopp reportedly spent considerable time speaking with 22-year-old forward Younes Ebnoutalib. The young striker, who was born in Frankfurt to a German mother and Moroccan father, is eligible to represent either Germany or Morocco at international level.
Reports suggest that Klopp encouraged Ebnoutalib to consider representing Germany during their conversation. The approach is particularly interesting because Morocco have become an increasingly attractive option for dual-nationality players.
The North African nation’s recent success has significantly raised the profile of its national team, making the decision between Germany and Morocco less straightforward for eligible players than it might have been in previous generations. Ebnoutalib is therefore facing an important decision about his international future.
From Germany’s perspective, the interest is understandable. Klopp will be well aware of the national team’s long-standing issues in front of goal and could see Ebnoutalib as a potential long-term option if the youngster continues to develop.
However, one conversation does not guarantee that the striker will ultimately choose Germany. Ebnoutalib must still decide which national team best fits his ambitions and long-term career plans.
For Klopp, making an early approach could prove significant. Germany have been searching for a genuine centre-forward for years, and finding a player with the right profile could change the way the team operate in attack.
Whether Ebnoutalib eventually becomes that player remains to be seen. But with Klopp reportedly encouraging him to choose Germany, the 22-year-old has suddenly become an intriguing name in the country’s search for the next great No. 9.
