Olympique Marseille ace explains decision on international future.
Olympique Marseille striker Michy Batshuayi has confirmed that he is looking to represent Belgium at international level, rather than the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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The Brussels-born striker is eligible for the Leopards through his parents, but having represented Belgium at U21 level, he has revealed on Twitter that he is keen to feature for Marc Wilmots’ senior side.
“I hope to wear—if I am given the opportunity over the next few years—the colours of Belgium,” the striker revealed on Twitter, “I was born in Belgium, it’s the country I grew up in and in the heart of which I was formed.
“I had the chance and the pride to wear the colours of the Red Devils for several years now. Therefore, my decision follows the continuity in this life of a man and a sportive one at that.”
He confirmed, however, that his Congolese heritage is important to him, “The DRC, as the origin of my parents, is obviously a part of my identity.”
Batshuayi had been called-up for the Leopards squad by coach Florent Ibenge, who guided DR Congo to third-place at the recent 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
Formerly of Standard Liege, the 21-year-old Marseille forward has featured 16 times for OM in Ligue 1 so far this season, starting on four occasions and scoring four goals.
He moved to Marseille in 2014 following six years at Liege, having previously been on the books of Anderlecht.