James McAtee on his decision to skip Club World Cup ahead of U21 Euros final | OneFootball

James McAtee says he has not regretted his decision to play for England in the U21 European Championship instead of the Club World Cup with Manchester City.

Defending champions England are looking to do a repeat by lifting the trophy again on Saturday evening when they take on Germany, having won the tournament back in 2023.

The Manchester City attacker made the bold decision to prioritise the tournament ahead of the Club World Cup, and was rewarded with the captain’s armband by manager Lee Carsley.

City have won all three of their Club World Cup matches in Group G, setting up a tie against Saudi outfit Al-Hilal in the round of 16.

McAtee’s England U21 team-mates Jamie Gittens, Jobe Bellingham and Liam Delap all opted to play at the Club World Cup instead of the Euros.

Despite that, McAtee and England have made it to the final of the U21 Euros after eliminating Spain in the quarter-final and beating the Netherlands in the semis.

The 22-year-old assisted in the Young Lions’ opening game against Czechia and scored the opening goal in their 3-1 victory against Spain.

“I don’t regret my decision at all. I’m happy I’m here and my focus is now tomorrow, it’s not on the Club World Cup,” he said.

Germany have knocked out Italy and France on their way to the final.

With Thomas Tuchel planning to attend the final in Bratislava, McAtee said that it is an “extra motivation” to impress and win the competition in front of the England senior-team manager.

Throughout the tournament, Carsley has emphasised the U21s as a vital pathway to the senior team, given that 10 players from the 2023 squad have since made appearances at the senior level.

McAtee also spoke highly of Carsley’s belief in the squad, given that 21 of the 23 players are competing in their first major tournament for the U21s.

The England manager is looking to add a second U21 Euros title to his personal accolades, having lifted the trophy two years ago in Georgia.

“I think the biggest thing about working with Lee is the belief and the trust that he puts in you,” McAtee said. “I think on the pitch, he just fills you with confidence, knowing that you can go and play with that freedom. You can go and express yourself and he gives a green light for that.

When asked if the players have any nerves ahead of the final, the Manchester City man responded: “I wouldn’t say that. I think some of the lads have played in some big games, but not yet, I’ve not sensed any nerves but I’m sure by tomorrow there will be some. Hopefully, the lads do get it, so it means that it’s something to them.”