'How do I get out of this?' - Ex-Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Youssoufa Moukoko reveals false birth certificate claims left him crying

Moukoko who was once tipped as Dortmund’s next superstar, has spoken out about the emotional toll of false age claims that surrounded his career. Despite scoring an incredible 141 goals in 88 youth matches for BVB, his rise was marred by allegations that his birth certificate was fake. Reports suggested he was actually born in 2000, making him four years older than officially registered.

After a loan spell at Nice, he left Dortmund permanently in the summer, completing a €5 million move to Copenhagen, where he has scored three times in 12 games so far. Nonetheless the scandal dented his reputation at a crucial stage in his development, with critics questioning both his legitimacy and his potential. His time at Dortmund fizzled out without a proper farewell to fans, ending a nine-year stay at the club. Now in Denmark, Moukoko is attempting to rebuild both his career and confidence, while showing resilience in speaking openly about the challenges that left him struggling mentally.

Speaking to TV2, Moukoko revealed: "I've cried and thought: 'How do I get out of this?' and 'When will things get better?' Many people simply say: 'Everything's fine,' after difficult times. But I want to talk about it. Sometimes you have to learn to cry for help.

"I think I was surprised by how many people do anything to get attention. Some people are incredibly greedy. Maybe one day I'll make my own documentary."

The German international is now focused on making his mark in the Danish Superliga. With three goals already for Copenhagen, the 20-year-old hopes to silence the noise around him by delivering consistent performances and reigniting the potential that once made him one of Europe’s most hyped teenagers.