By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)
The Sierra Leonean-German football star, Antonio Rudiger’s is set to represent Germany in the upcoming European Nations 2024 in Germany.
Following his Champions League victory with Real Madrid, in an exclusive interview with the British Broadcasting Cooperation, BBC, it was very clear that Germany provided him with significant opportunities as a child.
He grew up there and ultimately had to make a choice. Representing Germany, he said, has undeniably helped him reach his current level of success. He stressed that he remains a proud Sierra Leonean, a fact that’s recognized worldwide.
However, he has consistently demonstrated his support for his home country through various projects such as assisting ailing children.
Even after winning the Champions League with Real Madrid 2023/24 season, he has maintained his connection with Sierra Leone, visiting and actively engaging the nation with moral support.
Rüdiger was born in Germany in 1993 to a Sierra Leonean mother who had fled the civil war, thus his upbringing undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his decision to represent Germany. Notwithstanding, a strong choice of attachment to his mother’s homeland is apparent.