Cymru U21 will head to Spain for two international friendlies against Andorra and Sweden later this month.
The first game against Andorra will take place on Thursday 20 March (11am GMT) before the clash with Sweden three days later on Sunday 23 March (1pm GMT).
Both games will take place at Oliva Nova Sports Center in Valencia.
A new-look squad will be named for the two fixtures as Matty Jones’ side start preparations for their 2027 UEFA U21 EURO qualifying campaign, which begins in September as Cymru host Denmark.
Cymru U21 March schedule
- Cymru U21 v Andorra U21 – Thursday 20 March (11am GMT) – Oliva Nova Sports Center, Valencia.
- Cymru U21 v Sweden U21 – Sunday 23 March (1pm GMT) – Oliva Nova Sports Center, Valencia.
Matty Jones on the future of Cymru U21
“It’s exciting in terms of what we’ve created over the last two years,” said Matty. “We’ve aligned both the seniors and the U21’s to normalise the situation that players will play across the pathway. What we want to do is try and take away the image that playing up is the right way to go.
“It’s not about trying to convince players to move across age groups, but changing the culture and the environment. To change the way of thinking and change the terminology. Ultimately, when you speak to every player all they want to do is play football.
“Some will move quickly through the system, but they’ve also got to understand why they’re doing that through clear communication and with an action plan. There are many factors that players have to understand to make it normal, and it was a big passion of mine to change that culture and expectation from players.”
Jones was appointed Cymru U21 head coach in September 2022, and last summer signed a two-year extension to his contract to take him through to 2028.
“I’m excited and passionate about this role and I’m loving it,” he explained. “I can’t adore my job any more. I’ve been through the adversities and the trauma that you get coaching club and academy football, so I do see this as a reward.
“It’s a luxury role that many people look for. I do feel quite privileged to be in this position because you’re also representing your country, and you can’t get better than that.”
