At 21, Joseph Nonge is facing a significant decision over his international career. The midfielder, developed by Juventus and now playing for Stade Brestois, is eligible to represent Belgium, the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Costa Rica.

Born in Belgium, Nonge has a Congolese father and a Costa Rican mother. His international career has so far followed a Belgian path, with the player progressing through the Diables Rouges’ youth teams up to Under-21 level.

Competition for Belgium spot

Belgium’s football authorities continue to monitor Nonge’s development at club level, but the intense competition for places in the senior national team could encourage him to consider his other international options.

Both the Federation Congolaise de Football Association and the Costa Rican Football Federation are closely following his situation. The two organisations view Nonge as a potential addition to their midfield as they prepare for upcoming continental commitments and World Cup qualifying matches.

However, the midfielder cannot simply change allegiance without approval from football’s governing body. Because he has made official appearances for Belgium’s youth teams, Nonge would need to submit a change-of-association request to FIFA.

Only after that process could he formally switch to representing the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of the Congo or the Ticos of Costa Rica.