The Bayern Munich wonderkid REFUSED to play for his country after being hit with a stunning Olympic snub

Nestory Irankunda has reportedly turned down the chance to represent his country, Australia, after initially being left out amid fears his inclusion could ‘damage’ him.

According to the Sydney Morning HeraldAdelaide star Irankunda – who moves to German giants Bayern Munich this summer – has been called up 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 heading to 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 undeniably the biggest name in the competition.

The Bayern Munich-bound star turned down the Olyroos for their qualifiers in Paris

However, Football Australia claims that Irankunda did not reject a call-up and that the governing body was merely ‘testing the waters’ on Qatar and aware of his fast-approaching move to Europe.

Irannunda’s criticism is a major 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 talents.

‘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 just bring him in for it, but when you interact with players and have a relationship with them you learn so much more about him and we think the bigger picture is the national team, the Voetbaloos.

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

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