Rani Khedira #13

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At the age of 32, Rani Khedira finally agreed to represent Tunisia, switching allegiance from Germany just three months before the World Cup finals. Capped only at youth level for his country of birth, Khedira – younger brother of World Cup winner Sami – had declined previous offers to represent the Eagles of Carthage. Sources close to the Tunisian FA have claimed that Khedira justified his refusal by saying he was not ready and only spoke German. This year, he finally accepted the call-up after talks with Sabri Lamouchi, who may even start him in a tough group. Many fans are sceptical over his change of heart, and believe Khedira is simply adding another line to his CV: playing in a World Cup. Tunisian supporters have not forgotten similar cases in the past, like David Jemmali in 2006 or Yohann Benalouane in 2018, but Lamouchi appears convinced Khedira will improve his team.

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