Defender Dylan Georges Maes is optimistic that his recent exploits at club level can earn him a call up in the national team which starts its 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in November.

Maes, 22, has been ever present in central defense for Druga Liga club NK Tolmin making ten league appearances so far season. The club currently sits 12th on the league table.

The Rwandan U23 guardsman anticipates his fine form can get him his first senior national team call up as Rwanda embark on the qualification journey to the 2026 World Cup in US, Mexico and Canada with two November fixtures against Zimbabwe and South Africa.

"It has been a great season so far for me,” Maes told Times Sport. "My goal is to be selected and make my debut for the senior national team in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers."

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The youngster further emphasized that Slovenia is a good country which is friendly for young players to grow their talent, football careers and, specifically, a place where he looks forward to seeing his football development getting even better.

"I have never regretted coming here from Cyprus. It is a good country and their football is great. You can see from the European qualifiers they are playing. After eight games, they are leading a Group comprising of Denmark, Finland and Ireland."

"Slovenia is perfect platform for young players like me to excel and make the next big step in my career. The league is full of quality youngsters which is very good."

Born to a Rwandan mother and a Belgium father in Ukkel, Maes has represented Rwanda at U20 and U23 levels.

At club level, he played for Beveren, Sintrense, Amadora and Oroklini before moving to Slovenia in June 2023.