Jonathan Tah

Jonathan Tah Explains Choosing Germany Over Ivory Coast for International Career.

Bayern Munich defender Jonathan Tah has reaffirmed his commitment to representing Germany internationally, revealing he turned down an approach from Ivory Coast at age 17 with no regrets. Speaking at a press conference before Germany’s final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the 28-year-old, whose father hails from Ivory Coast, described his choice as a decision of the heart.

“For everyone, it is an individual decision, and everyone sees it differently. For me it is a decision of the heart,” Tah told reporters. “It did not take long. It happened when I was 17 (and was approached by the Ivory Coast). I quickly said no. I was going through all the German national youth teams and I wanted to play for Germany.” 0 2 Now with 44 caps and a 2016 Olympic silver medal, he’s a cornerstone of Die Mannschaft under Julian Nagelsmann, having started all four games at Euro 2024.

Tah’s journey through Germany’s youth setups, from U16 to U21, solidified his allegiance, culminating in his senior debut in 2016. 5 His standout performances for Bayer Leverkusen, where he helped secure the 2023-24 Bundesliga title, and his recent move to Bayern in 2025 for €30 million, underline his elite status. 6 7 Despite interest from Ivory Coast, the AFCON champions, Tah remains steadfast, eyeing a starting role against Hungary and Netherlands to help Germany top their World Cup qualifying group.

“It was an individual decision and I see it as a decision of the heart,” he reiterated, dispelling any doubts as he prepares to lead Germany’s defense in Doha. 0 With his contract running until 2030, Tah’s loyalty to Die Mannschaft is unwavering, cementing his place as a Bundesliga star with a German soul.