The England Under-21 team is set to showcase its rising stars in a highly anticipated friendly match against France on March 21, 2025. With a kick-off scheduled for 8 PM GMT at the Stade du Moustoir in Lorient, fans are eager to see a squad enriched with young talent taking on the French team, known for its robust footballing legacy.
Lee Carsley, back in his role as head coach, leads this Young Lions squad, boasting some of the Premier League’s most promising athletes. England’s meeting with France marks the first of two friendlies during this international break, the second being scheduled against Portugal the following week. Enthusiasm is palpable among supporters who can watch the match for free via the England YouTube channel, bringing more accessibility to youth football.
Among the standout players in Carsley’s line-up is 21-year-old Ronnie Edwards, who has been called up for the Under-21s for the first time. Edwards, who is currently on loan at Queen Park Rangers (QPR), has made 13 appearances for the club this season, demonstrating his defensive prowess and solidifying his place as a key player for the future. Southampton fans will particularly relish the thought of seeing Edwards and fellow Saints player Taylor Harwood-Bellis potentially leading the backline together.
In addition to Edwards, the squad features other notable names, including Ethan Nwaneri, who is expected to impress in his debut following a breakout season with Arsenal. With the England Under-21 team’s overall value exceeding £400 million, the talent pool appears deeper than ever.
Notably, the excitement surrounding this event has been captured by figures within the football community. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised both the opportunities available for young players and Carsley’s coaching abilities, stating, "Lee just said that he was going to select him and I know him. He’s a phenomenal coach and person - unique." Arteta’s confidence in Carsley highlights the promising direction this young squad is heading.
However, the team has faced setbacks, as shown by recent injury withdrawals. Jay Stansfield, striker for Birmingham City, is one of three players officially ruled out of both upcoming games. Stansfield, who returned to his club side after a previous injury, was looking forward to testing his mettle against international opponents but now faces further assessment, as must Sunderland defender Dennis Cirkin and Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens. Edwards has stepped in admirably, showcasing the depth and resilience of England’s young prospects.
The match against France is not merely an exhibition; it serves as essential preparation for the UEFA U21 EURO Finals to be held in Slovakia later this summer. This competitive edge emphasizes the importance of these fixtures for the players and the coaching staff alike, aiming to foster a winning mentality within the young squad.
Fans will have the opportunity to dive into the action and witness these promising talents on display. The match, kicking off in just a few hours, will offer a platform for the players to shine and potentially lay down a marker for their selections in future international duties.
As anticipation builds for this clash, the England U21 team embodies hope and potential, much to the delight of fans supporting from home and the stands. With technical skills, strategic awareness, and the zeal to forge careers at the top level, these young players are set to make a significant impact on the international arena.
In summation, the upcoming friendly against France is more than just a match; it’s a glimpse into the future of English football, filled with excitement, opportunity, and the chance to develop lasting legacies. Young football enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing this pivotal moment today. Will they rise to the occasion? Fans can only wait and see.
