Austria Targets Chukwuemeka for World Cup 2026 Amid Citizenship Bid

Key Takeaways:

• The Austrian Football Association is striving to secure citizenship for Carney Chukwuemeka before World Cup 2026
• Chukwuemeka has represented England at every youth level, winning Euro 2022 with the under-19 side, but has yet to feature for the senior national team
• The midfielder joined Borussia Dortmund on loan in spring 2025 from Chelsea before being permanently signed six months later

Austria Pursues Chukwuemeka Switch Ahead of World Cup 2026

The Austrian Football Association is actively seeking to add Carney Chukwuemeka to its national team roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Efforts are underway to grant the Borussia Dortmund midfielder Austrian citizenship in time for the tournament. Chukwuemeka, aged 22, was born in Eisenstadt, Austria, but later moved to the United Kingdom, where he gained British citizenship.

🚨🚨| The Austrian FA are trying to convince Carney Chukwuemeka to represent Austria before the 2026 World Cup. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🔁🇦🇹

He was born in Austria to Nigerian parents and lived there before moving to England, where he later became a British citizen.

[@TheAthleticFC] pic.twitter.com/CLfY06HrFD

— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) February 11, 2026

International Career and Eligibility

Despite his eligibility for multiple national teams, Chukwuemeka has only been capped at youth level for England, representing every youth category and notably winning the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2022. He remains uncapped at senior level for England, preserving his option to switch allegiances.

Chukwuemeka’s eligibility for Austria stems from his place of birth. Although he previously renounced his Austrian passport – a decision made during his childhood – there is potential for it to be reinstated, as the original renunciation was conducted while he was still a minor. His family have Nigerian heritage, further expanding his international options.

Club Progression: From England to Germany

Chukwuemeka started his club career in the Premier League, appearing for both Aston Villa and Chelsea. In February 2025 he joined Borussia Dortmund on loan and, following a six-month spell, secured a permanent move to the German side. His progression has been marked by versatility and development across two of Europe’s top leagues.