South Korea Secures Position as New Home for DFB's U21 National Team Player - National team player from South Korea switches affiliation from DFB, opting for his home country's youth squad instead.
German Midfielder Jens Castrop Switches Federations to Join South Korea's National Team
Jens Castrop, a 22-year-old midfielder, has made a significant move in his football career, switching federations to represent South Korea. The change was confirmed by FIFA on August 11, 2025.
Castrop, who was previously a part of the German Football Association (DFB) and played for the German U21 national team, made four appearances for the team. However, he found himself facing strong competition for midfield positions in Germany, with players like Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka holding prominent roles.
This competitive landscape, coupled with the proactive approach of South Korea's current coach Hong Myung-bo, played a crucial role in Castrop's decision. Myung-bo, who has shown consistent interest in the young midfielder, personally scouted his games, making him feel valued and appreciated.
Castrop's dual heritage—born to a German father and a Korean mother—also made him eligible for Korea. His desire to play internationally at the senior level prompted the switch.
Castrop spent the summer with Borussia Mönchengladbach, leaving behind his previous team, 1. FC Nürnberg. Heung-Min Son, a South Korean footballer, also recently made a high-profile move from Tottenham Hotspur to Los Angeles FC. If Castrop decides to join the South Korean national team, he could potentially play alongside Son.
However, Castrop has not yet received an invitation from South Korea's national coach Myung-bo Hong. Despite this, he is now eligible to play for the South Korean national team.
This move marks an exciting new chapter in Castrop's career, as he looks to make a significant impact in the Asian football scene.
[1] FIFA Confirms Jens Castrop's Nationality Switch to South Korea (August 11, 2025) [2] Jens Castrop Leaves Borussia Mönchengladbach for South Korea (August 12, 2025) [3] Heung-Min Son Joins Los Angeles FC (July 20, 2025) [4] Myung-bo Hong Appointed as South Korea's National Coach (January 1, 2023)
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