‘My Dad always asked why I didn’t play for Nigeria’: Karim Adeyemi opens up on choosing Germany over Nigeria

Karim Adeyemi, the electric Borussia Dortmund forward, has revealed that his decision to represent Germany over Nigeria is a conversation that comes up often—especially with his father.

Speaking in an interview with Germany-based Nigerian football journalist Oma Akatugba, the 23-year-old admitted that despite his deep ties to Nigeria through his Yoruba father, he ultimately felt led to honor Germany’s early interest in his football journey.

‘It’s a difficult question. I have to answer this to my father also a lot of times,’ Adeyemi confessed. ‘I had the offer from Germany and I had a good feeling there, so I decided to play for Germany. That’s how easy it is.’

Born in Munich to a Nigerian father and a Romanian mother, Adeyemi has never hidden his affection for Nigeria. Though he chose Die Mannschaft—making his international debut in a 6–0 FIFA World Cup qualifier win over Armenia in 2021—he continues to connect with his Nigerian heritage through culture and community work.

‘I had a dream as a small child… I told my father that when I grow up and have a little more money, I want to help people in Nigeria. And that’s what I did,’ he said, speaking of his youth football development project and humanitarian work in Lagos.

Despite the Super Eagles never getting the chance to call him their own, Adeyemi’s admiration for Nigerian football and culture runs deep. He singled out iconic playmaker Jay Jay Okocha as his all-time favorite Nigerian footballer.

‘Jay Jay Okocha is my favorite—such a great player. Osimhen is really good, and Boniface too. Nigeria has many amazing players, even those not playing for the national team.’

From his love of Nigerian music—citing Burna Boy and Asake—as favorites, to his hopes of visiting again soon, Adeyemi says Nigeria will always be close to his heart.

‘Maybe in the winter or next summer. This year is hectic with the Club World Cup, but I’ll definitely be back.’