Manchester City youngsters were in action overnight for the final time as England played Spain in the Under 21 European Championship final.
City was well represented in the final with 5 players in the English and Spanish line ups. For England James Trafford, Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Cole Palmer all started. Tommy Doyle was amongst the substitutes for England. For Spain, City’s youngster Sergio Gomez started on the left wing.
England would emerge victorious in a spiteful clash 1-nil after a Cole Palmer free-kick was enough to secure England the win.
Cole Palmer scored the winner for England in first-half stoppage time. His deflected free-kick was enough to give England the win. Palmer grew into the tournament as the knockout stages progressed.
City’s young winger has interest from several Premier League clubs as reported by Dan King of the Sun. After impressing in the closing stages of the tournament Palmer has firmly put himself in the shop window.
James Trafford was the hero for England. His 98th-minute penalty save, then another off the rebound clinched the crown for England.
James Trafford’s magnificent penalty save in the U21 final.#TwitterClarets
pic.twitter.com/GdmUGUmcpk— ClaretXtra (@ClaretXtra) July 8, 2023
Trafford went through the entire tournament without conceding a goal.
As reported by Mike Minay of BBC Sport a move to Burnley may be on the cards for City’s young keeper. He’s ready for a chance at a higher level of football judging by his performances throughout the tournament.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis continued his fine tournament for England with another impressive display at the back. City’s young defender was a key player in defense for England as their back four formed a strong foundation to clinch the crown for England.
Tommy Doyle came on late for England as they attempted to hold onto their lead.
Sergio Gomez started for Spain but was unable to prevent the Spanish from falling at the final hurdle. Gomez impressed again for Spain. If he takes his form from this tournament into pre-season, he should get more opportunities for City next season.
Gomez would finish equal top scorer at the tournament with 3 goals. A deserved reward for his sparkling displays for Spain.
The City youngsters all shone at the tournament, setting themselves up well for the season ahead.
