Iraq calls up Manchester United youngster Zidane Iqbal for senior debut in World Cup qualifiers

Manchester United's Zidane Iqbal has been called on to join the Iraq football team to play in upcoming World Cup qualifiers. 

The 18-year-old, born and raised in Manchester, made history last month when he played for the Red Devils in a Champions League match against Young Boys, becoming the first British-born South Asian to play for the club at top-level football. 

He has been summoned for his senior debut alongside Wycombe’s Ali Al-Hamadi to play for the Iraqi squad against Iran and Lebanon, Sky Sports News reported on Monday. 

"It's good knowing I might be a role model - I'd want to be a good one," Iqbal told the BBC. 

Unbelievable feeling to make my professional debut at Old Trafford. I have grown up supporting this club and to represent Manchester United in the Champions League is an incredible honour. This would not have been possible without the support of my family, friends and coaches.❤️ pic.twitter.com/vExlwtKUCe

— zidane iqbal (@z10ane) December 9, 2021

Iqbal is eligible to play for England, Iraq, and Pakistan's national teams. 

The teenager has previously captained and scored for Iraq’s U23s squad in international friendlies. 

Al-Hamadi, 19, won his first two international caps in November when representing the Arab nation in their World Cup qualifiers against Syria and South Korea. 

Iraq and Iran, who have an intense footballing rivalry, are set to face each other at the Azadi Stadium in Tehran on Thursday.