Bayern Munich wonderkid REFUSES to play for his country after receiving shocking snub at Olympics

Nestory Irankunda has reportedly turned down the opportunity to represent his country, Australia, after he was initially excluded over fears his inclusion could “harm” him.

According to the Sydney Morning HeraldAdelaide star Irankunda, who is moving to mighty Bayern Munich this summer, had been scouted to replace the injured Marco Tillo for the Olympic qualifiers in Qatar.

However, the 18-year-old turned down the opportunity to join Tony Vidmar’s team for the under-23 Asian Cup, which also serves as a qualifier for the Paris Games.

The same report claims that Irankunda opted to play at least four more games in Adelaide before leaving for Germany, rather than go to Qatar and not play at all.

Irankunda’s decision is a welcome boost for the A-League, with the 18-year-old undoubtedly the biggest name in the competition.

Football Australia maintains, however, that Irankunda did not reject a call-up and that the governing body was simply “testing the waters” on Qatar and was aware of his impending move to Europe.

Irankunda’s snub is a blow to the Olyroos and their bid to reach Paris, while raising further questions about the need to balance the youngster’s development with Australia’s immediate need for his talent.

‘The person is number one. And I think that’s something we really need to take care of first,” Vidmar said last week.

“I could be selfish and bring him in just because, but by dealing with the players and having that relationship with them, you discover a lot more about him, and we feel that the bigger picture is the national team, the Futboleros.

“You want to talk about him for the next 15 years as a national team player… we are looking to the future for him.”

Irankunda has scored six goals and provided six assists for United this season.