The future international allegiance of Ezechiel Banzuzi remains uncertain after the midfielder revealed he was “in shock” following a call-up from DR Congo’s under-23 side.
The 21-year-old, who is currently representing the Netherlands at under-21 level, has become the latest dual-national player attracting attention from African football authorities seeking to strengthen their national teams.
Speaking in an interview with ESPN, Banzuzi admitted the approach from Congo came as a surprise.
“We’ll see what happens. I didn’t even realize I’d received the invitation,” he said, explaining that he only became aware of the call-up through people close to him.
“I think they’re handling it. I was a bit shocked, but it’s nice of them to be interested in us.”
For now, however, the midfielder is prioritising his current commitments with the Dutch setup.
“For now, I am here and I am focusing on the Netherlands under-21 team and on my career,” he added.
Banzuzi, who plays for RB Leipzig, is part of a Netherlands under-21 squad preparing for a European Championship qualifier against Norway on Friday.
His involvement with the Dutch youth team highlights the ongoing competition between European and African federations for players with dual heritage.
Born in the Netherlands to Congolese roots, Banzuzi represents a profile increasingly targeted by African nations aiming to tap into diaspora talent just like Ghana did for Marvin Senaya.
For DR Congo, securing players of his calibre could prove vital in strengthening their future squads at both youth and senior levels.
The Netherlands, however, appear equally keen to retain the midfielder within their system.
Under-21 head coach Michael Reiziger has openly expressed his desire for Banzuzi to remain committed to the Dutch pathway.
“I’m advising him on this,” Reiziger said.
“Then, I hope he’ll follow his recommendations. I see Banzuzi as a very interesting player, a rare profile in the Netherlands. I hope he finishes his time with the U21s and doesn’t make a hasty decision.”
Banzuzi’s situation reflects a broader trend across international football, where players with multicultural backgrounds often face complex choices regarding national representation.
For African federations such as DR Congo, these decisions carry significant weight as they seek to compete at the highest level by integrating emerging talent from abroad.
While no final decision has been made, the coming months could prove decisive in determining where Banzuzi’s international future lies.
For now, both the Netherlands and DR Congo will continue to monitor his development closely as he navigates a crucial stage of his career.
