France could miss out on an absolute gem, though it’s not like they haven’t already got a squad full of world-class players.
Manchester United academy star Hannibal Mejbri has chosen to represent Tunisia rather than France at international level – a decision which may come as a surprise to most.
It turns out he is ‘very proud’ to represent Tunisia and says it will be ‘like a present’ for his parents.
Mejbri, 18, has represented France at youth level but has now decided to switch his allegiance to Tunisia and could make his debut this month. Knowing that this is likely to present Mejbri with more senior game time, I think it’s also a very wise decision for ensuring he gets game time while trying to break into United’s first team.
The player has explained that his decision was not purely a sporting one.
“I think that it is the best decision for my family and me,” he told RMC Sport. “I am very proud of this decision. Tunisia is my country, the country of my parents so for sure there is a strong complicity.
“I like this country a lot, that is why I made this decision. I speak a little Arabic, but not very well. I lost it since I arrived in England. I am not scared about that.
“The higher the bar, the more you can improve. It can only help me to gain experience. My father and my mother were very happy that I chose Tunisia, certainly.
“It is like a present for them. But it makes me happy too. I think that I made the right choice. We will see in the future if that is the case. I am trying to build something, not purely on the sporting side.”
We’re looking forward to watching Mejbri on the international stage!
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I am very happy for Bruno Fernandes,hope he win the aware.