Julian Nagelsmann, head coach of the German national team, has called up Nathaniel Brown to the 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Luxembourg on October 10 and Northern Ireland on October 13. This marks a significant step forward for the Frankfurt defender, especially after his outstanding performances in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League this season. Brown`s inclusion coincides with a period of defensive restructuring for Germany following their disappointing result at Euro 2024 on home soil.
Nathaniel Brown was born in Frankfurt to an American father and a German mother, which granted him eligibility to represent both Germany and the United States. Although he progressed entirely through Germany`s youth system, his American heritage through his father offered a potential path to an international career with the US national team, but this option now seems unlikely.
In a video released by Frankfurt in July, Brown confirmed he had considered playing for the US national team: “Of course, there was contact. But I was born in Germany and played for the U-21 team.”
His journey through the German youth ranks culminated when he played a key role in the U-21 squad that reached the European Championship final against England in June.
Brown`s rapid progress at the club level has significantly accelerated his international career. Joining Eintracht Frankfurt`s academy at age 13, he advanced through all stages of the youth system, and last season, under coach Dino Toppmöller, he established himself as a first-team regular. This season, the versatile defender has started all five Bundesliga matches and both of Frankfurt`s Champions League games, contributing to three goals and demonstrating tactical flexibility across various defensive positions.
Although the US national team was unable to secure Brown, they have found success with other dual nationals. Among the latest recruits are Damion Downs and Noahkai Banks, who also hold German and American citizenship. Downs has already played six matches for the US national team in his first year in the program. Banks featured for the US U-20 squad and was invited to the senior team`s September camp. While he has not yet made his senior debut, his presence at the training camp is seen as a positive sign.
