Axel Tuanzebe, the 26-year-old center-back formerly of Manchester United, has embarked on a new journey in his football career by accepting a call-up to the Congo national team, the country of his birth.

Despite showing early promise and being touted as a future star for both Manchester United and England, Tuanzebe’s career trajectory took a different path due to injuries and other challenges.   

Tuanzebe’s time at Manchester United saw him make 37 appearances for the senior team, but he never managed to secure a debut for the England national team. His professional journey included loans to Aston Villa, Stoke City, and Napoli before ultimately signing with Ipswich Town in the English Championship, where he now plays under former United acquaintance Kieran McKenna.   

Deciding to represent Congo at the international level marks a significant shift for Tuanzebe, who was born in Bunia, Congo, in 1997. This move not only highlights the personal connections that can influence a player’s national team allegiance but also underlines the global nature of football careers, where players often have ties to multiple countries.   

Tuanzebe’s decision comes at a time when the discussion around national team eligibility and player heritage is increasingly prominent in the world of football. His choice to play for Congo, after years of speculation about his potential involvement with the England squad, reflects a broader trend of players exploring their identity and connections to their ancestral homelands.