Nürnberg’s highly-rated forward Can Uzun has opted to represent Turkey at the international level, according to Sky Germany.

This decision by the 18-year-old follows in the footsteps of fellow German-born player Kenan Yildiz, who also recently chose Turkey. Uzun, considered a rising star in the German second division, is expected to secure a move to the Bundesliga in the summer.

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Turkey national team coach Vincenzo Montella reportedly plans to include Uzun in the squad for upcoming friendlies against Hungary and Austria, as well as for Euro 2024.

Turkey will face Portugal, Czechia, and the winner of Playoff C in the group stage of the European Championship.

Uzun, who previously represented Turkey at the U17 European Championship, expressed his decision was based on personal feelings: “I listened to my heart.

This decision is not a career decision like changing clubs; it’s from the heart. You have to feel the national team, and here my heart and stomach said that Turkey is the right choice for me.”

Former Bundesliga player Hamit Altıntop, a member of the Turkish Football Federation board, reportedly played a crucial role in persuading Uzun to choose Turkey. Altıntop himself holds dual nationality, having previously played for both Germany and Turkey.