Head coach Chris Gunter believes that the upcoming Uefa Men’s Under-19 Championship finals represents a vital opportunity for Welsh players to display their abilities, especially with Euro 2028 just two years away.
Gunter has selected a 20-player squad for the tournament, which will kick off in north Wales later this month.
Oliver Bostock and Jayden Lienou, both of whom were included in Craig Bellamy’s senior squad for recent friendlies against Ghana and Romania, are part of the lineup.
“These players know that we’re hosting in 2028, which is just two years away, so their aim is to earn their place in that squad,” Gunter stated.
“This is both a challenge and an opportunity for them.”
“They are eager to prove how good they are against the best teams in Europe for their age group.”
Cardiff will host the opening match of the 2028 European Championships with Wales co-hosting alongside England, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland.
Bellamy, who is keen to lead Wales at Euro 2028, has demonstrated his commitment to providing opportunities for players during his two years in charge.
One notable player is Dylan Lawlor, a 20-year-old defender for Cardiff City, who has transitioned from the Under-19 setup to become a regular in the senior squad, earning six caps.
“Thinking back to some of the players who were in the Under-19s last season, look at Dylan now; he’s played in the last four senior matches,” Gunter remarked.
“The landscape can change rapidly.”
Brayden Clarke, an Arsenal defender, previously participated in the Under-17 Euro finals in 2023 and 2024, and he has made history as the first Welsh player selected for three Uefa youth tournaments.
“There were tough decisions to make, which I didn’t enjoy,” Gunter admitted, referring to his role as Under-19s coach following Craig Knight’s departure. “However, I’m pleased with the strength of the squad we’ve assembled. It’s felt distant for a while, but now it’s upon us, and I know the players are eager to start.”
Wales will begin the tournament against nine-time champions Spain at Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground on Sunday, June 28. Gunter’s team will also compete against Germany and Denmark in Group A, while Group B includes Italy, Ukraine, Serbia, and Croatia.
“This tournament features the very best—there’s only room for seven other teams,” Gunter explained. “To some extent, I don’t mind who we’re facing; it’s more about our own performance. Competing against such teams is a challenge, but it’s something I want our players to encounter without fear.”
Wales Under-19s Squad
Luis Lines (Norwich City), Logan Stretch (Sheffield Wednesday), Stan Dancey (Crewe Alexandra), Brayden Clarke (Arsenal), Noah Williams (Cardiff City), Iestyn Jones (Swansea City), Luis Gardener (Everton), Jayden Lienou (Leeds United), Jac Thomas (Cardiff City), Makenzie Bradbury (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Charlie Stevens (AFC Bournemouth), Joe Lacey (Sydney FC), Rob Tankiewicz (Cardiff City), Elliot Myles (Norwich City), Cruz Allen (Derby County), Henry Kasvosve (Brighton & Hove Albion), Shea Pita (Everton), Oliver Bostock (West Bromwich Albion), Louie Bradbury (Manchester United), Adam Brett (Brighton & Hove Albion)