Childhood dream comes true as Ouedraogo gets late Germany World Cup call-up

Assan Ouedraogo's childhood dream of representing Germany at the World Cup has become a reality after he received a late call-up to the squad. The 20-year-old midfielder was on holiday in Marbella when he learned he would replace the injured Lennart Karl.

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I got the call from the national coach on Friday evening while on holiday.

Karl suffered a muscle tear during training ahead of Germany's friendly match against the United States. Manager Julian Nagelsmann turned to the RB Leipzig player to fill the vacant spot in the squad.

"When Julian Nagelsmann told me I was now part of the squad, I needed a moment to take it in and realise what had happened before going and packing my things straight away," Ouedraogo said in an interview on his club's website. He added, "It's a huge honour and makes me very proud to represent Germany at the World Cup. A childhood dream of mine has come true, one I have worked hard for, especially over the past few months and years."

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When Julian Nagelsmann told me I was now part of the squad, I needed a moment to take it in and realise what had happened before going and packing my things straight away.

Ouedraogo has previously made one appearance for Germany, scoring the final goal in a 6-0 victory over Slovakia in November during a World Cup qualifier. He expressed sympathy for Karl, stating, "At the same time, I would like to wish Lenny a speedy and full recovery. I feel very sorry for him that he got injured so close to the tournament and can't be involved."

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It's a huge honour and makes me very proud to represent Germany at the World Cup. A childhood dream of mine has come true, one I have worked hard for, especially over the past few months and years.

Germany, who last won the World Cup in 2014, will commence their Group E campaign against Curacao on June 14 in Houston. Their subsequent matches are against the Ivory Coast and Ecuador.

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At the same time, I would like to wish Lenny a speedy and full recovery. I feel very sorry for him that he got injured so close to the tournament and can't be involved.