An African star is reportedly in the process of changing his allegiance to represent China.
It is not uncommon for players of African descent to represent nations outside the continent.
For example, Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies was born in Buduburam, a refugee camp in Ghana, but he represents Canada at international level.
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AS Monaco forward Breel Embolo is another example, as he was born in Cameroon but has represented Switzerland at youth level and the senior national team.
While there are countless examples of African-born players representing European nations, the same cannot be said when it comes to Africans opting to wear the colours of Asian countries.
A stunning report now claims that DR Congo-born star Oscar Maritu is in the process of changing his allegiance to China.
It is reported that the striker is now eligible to complete his naturalisation process, as he has been in China for more than five years, which allows him to apply for Chinese citizenship.
Maritu arrived in China back in 2018 from the DRC, and since making the switch, the 25-year-old has made 155 league appearances in the top flight and second tier, registering 60 goals and 27 assists.
Now a free agent following the conclusion of the 2024 Chinese Super League, Maritu is reportedly set to join newly promoted side Yunnan Yukun, who have former Mamelodi Sundowns star Nyasha Mushekwi on their books.
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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