Nationality change: Austria has two new stars

The issue of dual citizenship is relevant not only in ice hockey but also in football. Austria has now managed to convince two players who previously played for other nations to join the country.

March 10, 2026

From: cst

Paul Wanner and Carney Chukwuemeka will play for Austria in the future. Both players have already played junior international matches for other nations, but are expected to represent the red-white-red football nation at the 2026 World Cup this summer.

Chukwuemeka (22) is the son of Nigerian parents who lived in Eisenstadt until the mid-2000s. Their son was born in the Burgenland capital before the family moved to England. The midfielder, who was developed at Aston Villa and has played for Borussia Dortmund for about a year, also played for the Three Lions up to the U21 level.

Paul Wanner (second from right) has chosen Austria. © APA/afp / VINCENT JANNINK

Paul Wanner, born in Dornbirn, was poached from the German Football Association (DFB). The former Bayern Munich talent, currently a regular starter at PSV Eindhoven, has previously played for Germany's youth national teams. Just a few days ago, Wanner stated, "I want to play for Austria." The attacking midfielder has been courted by Ralf Rangnick for some time and now dreams of playing in the World Cup with Austria. "The World Cup is a dream for every player. But like everyone else, I have to earn my nomination," said the 20-year-old.

Keywords Soccer National team Austria