Nestory Irankunda has Watford medical as he targets 2026 World Cup

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·16 Juli 2025

Nestory Irankunda has Watford medical as he targets 2026 World Cup

Bayern Munich forward, Nestory Irankunda is undergoing a medical with English Championship side, Watford today as his move from Bavaria nears completion.

At 19, Irankunda is already an Australia international, but failed to make an appearance for the German giants.

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The young forward transferred from Adelaide United in January 2024 to Bayern’s second string, but was quickly shipped out on loan to the Switzerland Super League with Grasshoppers.

Irankunda made 21 appearances last season but managed just one goal after completing 90 minutes just three times in 2025.

Speaking to Sky Sports after arriving in London last night, Irankunda discussed his moved to Watford and what he hopes to bring on the field.

“It was kind of an easy decision, obviously the Championship is a world-class league. “It’s a dream of mine to eventually be able to play in England. I’m just going to work hard and try and get a spot to play. “I’m pretty fast, I’ve got a shot on me. I’m one of those players who wants to make the crowd go wild. “I think you can expect a lot from me. Down the right wing, running very quick and crossing balls as well.”

Reflecting on his short time with German champions, Bayern Munich, Irankunda said:

“You learn a lot when you train with the best players in the world. “I’m very grateful for the opportunity I had. In Australia we don’t have anyone at that level – in the past, Tim Cahill and Harry Kewell – so top players like Harry Kane, being able to train with them is a dream come true for me.”

But now his focus is on Watford and making the 2026 World Cup:

“It was a very hard decision (to leave Bayern Munich) but for me, my biggest goal is to play in a World Cup and the 2026 World Cup is just around the corner. “So I have to be playing minutes and I wasn’t playing (in Germany).”

Irankunda was born in a Tanzanian refugee camp to Burundian parents before moving to Australia as an infant.

In 2024, he became the second-youngest player to score for the Socceroos in a World Cup qualifier against Palestine.

Watford will reportedly pay Bayern Munich €4million for Irankunda, including a 50% sell-on fee and option to buy-back, should Irankunda impress in Hertfordshire.

Watford are well-known for developing young players, with the likes of Chelsea forward, Joao Pedro and Tottenham’s Richarlison using Vicarage Road to hone their skills before big money moves to the Premier League.

Irankunda will be hoping that Watford can launch his career.

GGFN | Oscar O’Mara