Maltese Abroad: Nathan Iriele Currently Playing With German Side Turkspor Mannheim

22 year-old Maltese footballer Nathan Iriele has moved to German sixth-tier side Turkspor Mannheim, marking his first experience overseas.

Iriele spent most of his academy days with Żabbar St. Patrick Football Club's youth teams, making his senior team debut in 2021. He then moved to Naxxar Lions, and San Ġwann, before getting regular senior team experience with Xgħajra Tornadoes.

Nathan arrived in Germany in July 2026, signing with Turkspor Mannheim in August. He remarked that moving abroad was an important decision for him, as he looks to challenge himself, gain experience in a different football environment and continue developing as a player.

So far, he has played eight out of ten games as a full back or centre back, with Turkspor Mannheim currently in sixth place of the landesliga Rhein-Neckar 2026/27.

The youngster is eager to take his skills to the next level, with the ultimate goal of signing a professional contract, remarking that "I am determined to keep working towards my goal of becoming a professional football player."

#MaltaDaily

Photo source: Nathan Iriele