Wael Mohya could make German football history at 17

The 17-year-old Borussia Mönchengladbach youngster received the call while at the gym, later sharing the news with his parents over dinner. "They started crying," the teenager said in a video posted on Gladbach's social media channels. Born in a small town east of Düsseldorf, Mohya has quickly become known for his technical skills, creativity, and ability to pressure opponents with quick dribbles.

In nine Bundesliga appearances this season, Mohya has scored twice and delivered one assist. His performances have drawn praise from his coach Alexander Blessin, who described him as "so cool and just plays really well. It's fun to watch him." Gladbach's sporting director Rouven Schröder added that Mohya "brings a lot to the team with his laid-back attitude on the field. He's not afraid to take risks, no matter how much pressure there is."

Early career and development

Mohya has been with Borussia Mönchengladbach since he was seven years old. Last season, former head coach Eugen Polanski promoted him to the first team, and in December 2025, he made his Bundesliga debut against Wolfsburg. At 16 years and 347 days old, he became the youngest Bundesliga player in the club's history.

Off the pitch, Mohya recently completed a voluntary social year at an elementary school in Mönchengladbach, where he helped serve meals, assisted children with homework, and played with them. It was during this time that a girl's mispronunciation of his name led to his enduring nickname "Waffel."

Future prospects and transfer interest

Even before his Germany call-up, Mohya had attracted interest from Bundesliga clubs across Europe's top leagues. His contract with Gladbach runs through 2028, but with the club currently in a relegation battle, his future likely lies elsewhere. His parents manage his career, and he receives a monthly allowance while they handle his contract negotiations.

International career decision

With parents from Morocco, Mohya holds dual citizenship and could have played for Morocco. The Moroccan football association had actively courted him as early as last year and reached out before the 2026 World Cup. However, Mohya chose Germany, having played for the nation's youth teams from U16 to U21.

If Mohya plays in the upcoming UEFA Nations League games in Serbia or against the Netherlands, he could become Germany's youngest player in the modern era. While he would rank third overall behind Willy Baumgärtner (1908) and Marius Hiller (1910), he would surpass Hamburg legend Uwe Seeler's 1954 record as the youngest Germany player in the modern game at 17 years and 345 days.

Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp has enjoyed his conversations with the youngster, joking that "I wasn't that confident at 17, but then again, I wasn't that good either." The door to Morocco remains open only as long as Mohya hasn't played a competitive match for Germany.