Born in the city of Bunia, Ituri Province of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the central-defender moved to England at the age of four (4) and would go on to represent that nation as youth level.
Axel Tuanzebe is now preparing to don the colours of his fatherland at international level after opting to switch his allegiance and represent the Leopards of the DR Congo.
The 26-year old defender celebrated his Championship club, Ipswich Town’s successful promotion into the Premier League last weekend.
Tuanzebe celebrated his club’s success cover wrapped in a DR Congo flag to indicate his upcoming call-up to the Leopards ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June.
Leopards head coach Sebastien Desabre is said to have already been in touch with Tuanzebe over past few months and will be part of his next selection for the crucial matches against Senegal and Togo.
Desabre had already named Tuanzebe in his provisional selection for the Leopards ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations last December.
Tuanzebe, a graduate of the Manchester United youth system, previously represented England at youth levels from Under-19 through to the Under-21 sides.
