Bayern Munich midfielder Tom Bischof has made clear that he still wants to represent Germany’s under-21s at next summer’s European Championship, despite his growing involvement with the senior national team. The 21-year-old is open to opportunities under Jürgen Klopp but does not regard promotion as the end of his time with Antonio Di Salvo’s squad.
“I’m not done with the U21s,” Bischof said after Germany’s goalless draw with Greece on Sunday. “I definitely want to be there in the Euros next summer. Even if Jürgen Klopp promotes me [to the senior team], I’m up for both.” His comments express a desire to remain involved at both levels rather than a decision to turn down senior selection.
Bischof’s resolve follows an encouraging international window with the senior side. He started against Serbia and Greece, scoring in Germany’s 2–0 victory over Serbia on 1 October. Those performances strengthened his case for further involvement under Klopp, although the midfielder remains determined to take part in the 2027 U21 European Championship in Albania and Serbia.
His preference reflects the role he has established within the younger team, where he has served as captain and an important midfield presence. The tournament would offer an opportunity to retain that responsibility while building on the experience gained with the senior squad. His ambition is to pursue both opportunities, subject to the decisions of Germany’s coaches.
Di Salvo has already adjusted his squad following Bischof’s promotion and an injury to defender Noahkai Banks. On 4 October, the German Football Association confirmed the additions of RB Salzburg centre-back Tim Drexler and Hoffenheim midfielder Cajetan Lenz ahead of the final group match in European Championship qualifying. Banks withdrew after suffering a lateral ligament injury in his right knee during the 4–1 victory over Malta.
Germany’s under-21s are due to face Georgia at Bielefeld’s SchücoArena on Tuesday, 6 October, with kick-off at 6pm local time. For Bischof, the immediate senior breakthrough has opened another route in his international career, but his message is clear: he still wants next summer’s U21 tournament to be part of it.
