Six years ago, Ilkay Gündogan's position on the German national team was uncertain due to a photo with Turkey's president. Fast forward to today, he is set to lead the team as captain in the European Championship opener against Scotland, becoming the first captain of Turkish heritage at a major tournament for Germany.
Gündogan's role symbolizes a growing 'hybrid identity' within the Turkish-German community, as noted by a researcher at the Center for Turkish Studies and Integration Research in Essen. This sentiment is further echoed by fans who support both the German and Turkish national teams, exemplified by a unique hybrid jersey created by a supporter for his son.
