He is the youngest Bundesliga player in history, of course also the youngest goalscorer in the league and is celebrated early on as the rising star of world football. But at Borussia Dortmund, Youssoufa Moukoko is currently not more than a follower role. Is Real Madrid tempting now?
With his winning goal against Hertha BSC, Youssoufa Moukoko became a key player in the relegation battle on the final day. But the Borussia Dortmund striker, who has been hailed as a child prodigy, hasn't gotten beyond a mini role in the Bundesliga this season. Future engagements? Uncertain!
After the game against the Berliners, the 17-year-old caused a stir on the Snapchat social network with photos and messages. "After six years of wonderful moments, I have to say goodbye," it said, among other things. "Youssoufa's messages were worded in a naive way. It seems he wanted to thank his retiring colleagues," said future sporting director Sebastian Kehl. The posts were then deleted.
Even if Kehl countered rumors of a transfer, the discussions about the top talent will continue. Despite his frequent injuries, Moukoko is unhappy with his playing time. 16 league appearances spread over 210 minutes (two goals, two assists) do not meet his expectations. The youngest player and goalscorer in Bundesliga history was only once in the starting XI. "We are in exchange. We'll see what's best for him and his development. It's important that he gets playing time at some point," said coach Marco Rose recently. He would be "happy if we manage to walk the not easy path together".
But what does Moukoko want? His contract runs until 2023. There is "no new status," Kehl told the newspapers of the Funke media group: "He has a contract until 2023, and we would like to extend it with him." According to "Ruhr Nachrichten", however, the negotiations are stalling. In addition, a rental business would also be possible in the summer. However, the 17-year-old would have to extend his contract for this, as loans are excluded in the last year of the contract.
The Spanish sports newspaper "AS" even connects the youngster with Real Madrid. Los Blancos are said to be ready to pay 20 million euros for the Germany U21 international. In view of the prominent competition in the Champions League finalists, a change for Moukoko does not make much sense.
Rose recently asked for patience – with everyone involved. "Do you know how old the boy is? He's 17. Then it's written: Youssoufa Moukoko's crash. If I'd had to endure or read something like that when I was 17, I don't know how I would have felt," said the BVB coach. He would like "that the boy would be allowed to be 17 and develop. And not tie any blocks to his leg, build up pressure or give the club respect."
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