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FIFA Approves Rani Khedira’s Switch From Germany to Tunisia Ahead of 2026 World Cup

The Union Berlin midfielder is targeting selection after years without a senior Germany cap.

Soccer Football - Bundesliga - 1. FC Union Berlin v RB Leipzig - Stadion An der Alten Forsterei, Berlin, Germany - December 12, 2025 1. FC Union Berlin's Rani Khedira looks on REUTERS/Annegret Hilse/File Photo

Overview

  • The Tunisian Football Federation said on March 5 that FIFA’s Football Court has officially approved Khedira’s change of sporting affiliation.
  • Capped by Germany from under-15 to under-19 level but never at senior level, he is changing associations to pursue a place at the 2026 tournament.
  • Eligible through his Tunisian father, he previously declined Tunisia over on-field communication concerns, with plans now for English usage and support from German-speaking assistant coach Michael Hefele.
  • A debut could come in Toronto friendlies against Haiti on March 28 and Canada on March 31, with additional warm-ups against Austria and Belgium scheduled in June.
  • Khedira is enjoying his most productive season for Union Berlin with five Bundesliga goals in 23 appearances, and Tunisia are set to face Japan, the Netherlands and a European play-off winner in Group F at the World Cup.