Vanessa Fudalla's National Team Exclusion Sparks Debate Despite Bundesliga Success

Christian Wück, coach of the German women's national football team, announced the squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia on March 3 and Norway on March 7, notably excluding Vanessa Fudalla. The 24-year-old striker from Bayer Leverkusen has had an outstanding Bundesliga season, scoring 12 goals and providing 5 assists in 17 matches, leading the league's scoring chart.

Despite these impressive statistics, Wück justified his decision by stating, "I see other players ahead of her," emphasizing that his perspective has remained unchanged despite her performance. He added that the door remains open for all players and that selections are made based on who can contribute most effectively at the international level.

Fudalla, who has advanced through all youth national teams and recently moved from RB Leipzig to Bayer Leverkusen, expressed her desire to play for the senior national team, admitting, "I would be lying if I said it wasn't a dream of mine." She accepted Wück's explanation for her exclusion and is focused on continuing her strong club performances to earn a national team call-up.

This decision has stirred discussions on the criteria used by the coaching staff, given Fudalla's top-scoring status in the Bundesliga. Her determination and ongoing form could still open opportunities in future selections, as Wück confirmed no player is permanently ruled out.

As the national team prepares for critical World Cup qualifiers, observers and fans will be watching to see if Fudalla's performances prompt a change in the squad composition ahead of the tournaments.