Anthony Elanga has been handed his first senior international call-up after being named in Sweden’s squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The 19-year-old has been one of the few highlights for Manchester United in an otherwise disappointing season. The academy graduate has impressed in recent weeks, becoming one of the regulars in Ralf Rangnick’s side.
Elanga came closest to scoring for United in their defeat to Atletico Madrid at Old Trafford on Tuesday as they went out of the Champions League. The young forward had ensured United went into the second leg on level terms after equalising late on in Spain three weeks ago.
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And the teenager has now been rewarded for a string of impressive performances with United with his first call-up to Sweden’s senior squad. His inclusion was confirmed by coach Janne Andersson during a press conference on Wednesday as he announced his squad for the upcoming World Cup play-offs.
Elanga has previously represented his country as a youth player, having received caps at U17, U19 and U21 levels. The forward was also eligible to represent Cameroon or England at international level.
Sweden take on the Czech Republic on Thursday, March 24 in a one-off tie, with the winners taking on Poland on Tuesday, March 29 for a place at this year’s World Cup in Qatar. Poland have already booked their place in the deciding play-off after Russia were suspended by FIFA following the invasion of Ukraine.
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Elanga is joined in the Swedish squad by team-mate Victor Lindelof, who has been captain of his country in recent fixtures. Former United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has also been named in the squad.
