'A matter of instinct': Ajax youngster Jorthy Mokio selects DR Congo ahead of Belgium
Jorthy Mokio, born in the Belgian city of Ghent, has become the second young Ajax player to opt for a different national team rather than Belgium, after Rayane Bounida decided to play for Morocco back in March.
During a chat with De Telegraaf, Mokio shared that once he revealed his uncertainty between Belgium and the D.R. Congo, his parents' homeland, events picked up pace rapidly.
"I chose to trust my gut and offer my services to Congo. So I look forward to representing them in the near future," Mokio stated.
World Cup participation uncertain
Mokio earned his first cap with the Belgian senior side in March 2025. Under FIFA regulations, this might block him from featuring for D.R. Congo in the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, given the required three-year interval between appearances for various countries.
"It’s fantastic that Congo has secured qualification. Should it work out and I receive a call-up, I’m fully prepared. Otherwise, I’ll be cheering them on from afar, alongside the supporters.”
Even after his stint with Belgium, the Congolese side remained attractive to Mokio. "They had expressed interest previously, yet I was too immature back then to commit fully," Mokio added.
"As years passed, my ties to the land of my heritage deepened. I sense now is the ideal time to embrace that connection and chart my path.”
Strain in family ties
Jorthy Mokio lately extended his Ajax deal through to 2031, a move that apparently damaged his bond with his father, who reportedly pushed for substantial financial gains and a lucrative move elsewhere.
Upon reaching 18, Mokio managed the talks independently and reached a deal with the Amsterdam outfit, defying his father's preferences.
"I resolved to advocate for my own interests and heed my inner voice. Observe developments and anticipate what lies ahead. It felt novel; my debut in such matters. I take pride in the outcome, with zero second thoughts," Mokio remarked on the club's site.