DFB president criticizes Adeyemi for declining U21 call-up
Speaking to German broadcaster ProSiebenMaxx during the half-time break of this evening's Germany U21 fixture, DFB President Bernd Neuendorf addressed Dortmund attacker Karim Adeyemi's decision to decline a U21 call-up.
Germany U21 head-coach Antonio di Salvo brushed away talk of Karim Adeyemi's decision to reject his call up during the current international break at various press events over the course of the week. The Germany U21 trainer merely remarked that the 21-year-old sought to shore up his club form by remaining home with the BVB.
Speaking to German broadcaster ProSiebenMaxx during the half-time break of this evening's Germany U21 fixture, DFB President Bernd Neuendorf wasn't nearly as diplomatic. The German footballing functionary openly criticized Adeyemi for the decision and hinted that there might be consequences moving forward.
"I think it was a mistake," Neuendorf said, "but there's no point in forcing anyone to come here. It doesn't help if their heart isn't in it. The U21s are a great place to use as a springboard."
"I think one should be proud to wear the [German Bundesadler] Eagle on one's chest," Neuendorf continued, "This is a missed opportunity that I regret. The coaches will have to decide on potential consequences."
"This is a signal of how important he takes this," Neuendorf concluded, "If he is of the opinion that he doesn't want to play here, one can't force him. It has to be with conviction, heart, and soul."