Chris Gunter names Wales U19 squad for Euro 2028 build-up

Chris Gunter, head coach of Wales, announced a 20‑player squad for the UEFA Men's Under‑19 Championship finals that begin in north Wales later this month. He highlighted the tournament as a platform for players with Euro 2028 only two years away.

The list features Oliver Bostock of West Bromwich Albion and Jayden Lienou of Leeds United, both of whom were called into Craig Bellamy's senior squad for recent friendlies against Ghana and Romania. Gunter said the chance to impress at the finals is a direct pathway to the senior Euro 2028 roster.

Dylan Lawlor, the 20‑year‑old defender from Cardiff City, has progressed from the U19 side to become a regular in the senior team, already earning six caps. Gunter cited Lawlor as an example of rapid advancement possible within two years.

Arsenal defender Brayden Clarke, who featured at the UEFA Under‑17 finals in 2023 and 2024, becomes the first Welsh player selected for three UEFA youth tournaments. Gunter praised Clarke’s consistency across age groups.

Wales will open the tournament against nine‑time champions Spain at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground on Sunday 28 June. The side also faces Germany and Denmark in Group A, while Group B includes Italy, Ukraine, Serbia and Croatia. Gunter stressed that the quality of opposition is a challenge the players must embrace.

The full squad includes Luis Lines (Norwich City), Logan Stretch (Sheffield Wednesday), Stan Dancey (Crewe Alexandra), Noah Williams (Cardiff City), Iestyn Jones (Swansea City), Luis Gardener (Everton), 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), Louie Bradbury (Manchester United) and Adam Brett (Brighton & Hove Albion).