England name 23-man squad for Under-21 Euros later this month with Jobe Bellingham and James McAtee included

 

England has announced its 23-man squad for the Under-21 European Championship in Slovakia, running from June 11 to 28, 2025. Sunderland’s Jobe Bellingham and Manchester City’s James McAtee are among the standout inclusions, while Chelsea’s Liam Delap has been notably omitted. The squad, coached by Lee Carsley, is gearing up for a strong campaign, with their opening match against Czechia on June 12.

Bellingham, recently named the Championship’s Young Player of the Year, earns his spot amid transfer interest from Borussia Dortmund. The 19-year-old midfielder has been a key figure for Sunderland, showcasing maturity beyond his years. McAtee, a versatile attacking midfielder, also secures his place despite uncertainty over his future at Manchester City. Opting to represent England at the U21 Euros instead of joining City’s Club World Cup squad, McAtee has attracted attention from Bundesliga clubs, with his contract situation adding intrigue.

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Delap’s absence is linked to his reported move to a Club World Cup team, ruling him out of the tournament. Other notable omissions include Adam Wharton, Jaden Philogene, and Jamie Gittens, with some players sidelined by injuries or club commitments. The squad remains formidable, blending emerging talents from the Premier League and Championship.

England’s Young Lions are among the favorites, aiming to build on their 2023 U21 Euros triumph. Carsley’s side will face a competitive group stage, with Czechia, Germany, and Israel in their path. Fans are buzzing about the potential of players like Bellingham and McAtee to shine on the international stage. The tournament offers a platform for these youngsters to stake claims for senior team call-ups, with the nation watching closely