Paul Wanner has been one of the impressive players in the Bundesliga over the two gameweeks. The youngster has enjoyed a very productive start to his loan spell at Heidenheim, justifying the decision of Bayern Munich to arrange one more loan move for him.
Wanner has four goals and two assists in four appearances across all competitions for Heidenheim. The good form of Wanner has once again sparked debate regarding his future at the international level.
Germany and Austria are the two options for Wanner at the international level. The two football boards have been trying to convince the youngster for several months. DFB is confident about Wanner picking them, but Austrian Football is not completely out of the race.
Julian Nagelsmann may call up Wanner for the German national team if he continues the good run of form for Heidenheim. While talking to SZ this week, Wanner revealed that a final decision regarding his international allegiance has not been made. However, a decision may come sooner than later from the young attacking midfielder.
"Of course I won't take a break [from international football] forever. It's not my goal not to be an international player. I want to get started at some point. Actually, I want to play in the Bundesliga for a whole year to see where it goes, but maybe the decision will be made sooner. I don't have a final feeling for the right time yet. I can say quite clearly that my decision is still open. I haven't decided anything yet."Paul Wanner
Wanner has already represented Germany at the youth level. He was called up for the U-21 squad during the international break but opted to rest during the last two weeks. The youngster admitted that he needed a small break after playing five games for Heidenheim in a short space of time in August.
Wanner hoping to be part of the first team squad at Bayern next season
The 18-year-old attacking midfielder will complete two seasons out on loan by the end of the current campaign. According to Bild (via GGFN), Wanner wants to establish himself at Bayern starting next season. He will face significant competition since Bayern are spoilt for choice in the attack.
Die Roten also have a similar target for Wanner. They wanted him to go out on loan for one more season before competing for game time in Munich. Bayern received concrete interest from several clubs across Europe, including PSV Eindhoven. However, the 18-year-old attacking midfielder preferred staying in the Bundesliga and joined Heidenheim.
Considering the explosive start to the season, Wanner should look to get into double figures for goals and assists at Heidenheim. He will also get exposure to European football since Heidenheim qualified for the UEFA Europa Conference League. The youngster will certainly get a senior cap by the end of the season. The only question is whether it will be for Germany or Austria.