Vitor Matos has encouraged Swansea City players who missed out on the World Cup to transform their disappointment into motivation for a journey towards Euro 2028.
Wales players Ben Cabango and Liam Cullen will rejoin Swansea for their match against Sheffield United on Friday after their World Cup aspirations were dashed by a semi-final defeat to Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Also feeling the sting of disappointment are Ethan Galbraith, following Northern Ireland’s playoff loss to Italy, and Adam Idah, who was part of the Republic of Ireland team eliminated by the Czech Republic in a penalty shootout during their semi-final.
Matos revealed that he has reached out to all four players after their respective setbacks, urging them to focus on the future.
“I spoke with each of them; they are all unique individuals dealing with disappointment in different ways,” said the Swansea head coach.
“Now it’s time to return to club life, which can offer a fresh perspective for all of them. That’s important.”
[FAW]
“It’s essential to think about what comes next. For instance, the fact that Wales fell short of the World Cup could mark the beginning of a remarkable story for the Euros,” he stated.
Matos acknowledged that coming close to a World Cup spot was significant for his players, but emphasized that their attention should now shift to the upcoming European Championship, which will be held in the British Isles.
“They need to focus on the next competition, which is just around the corner,” he said.
“The key question is why they shouldn’t strive to qualify for the Euros. That’s the mindset the players, as well as the fans, need to adopt. It’s a step everyone must take.”
“These were the discussions with the players involved in the playoffs. All are understandably disappointed, but I believe they will gradually bounce back.”