Man City Star Reveals Pep Guardiola’s Reaction to U21 Euros Choice

James McAtee revealed that Pep Guardiola encouraged him to “go have fun” after the player chose to participate in the Under-21 European Championship instead of the Club World Cup.

The 22-year-old Manchester City midfielder is set to captain England in their opening Euro match against Czechia, having prioritized international duty over club competition.

McAtee stated that the decision to join City in America or the England squad in Slovakia was left entirely to his discretion.

The player, recently named captain by Young Lions coach Lee Carsley, shared Pep Guardiola`s reaction to his choice.

McAtee quoted Guardiola: “Go and enjoy yourself, go and have fun, and try to win the tournament.” He wasn`t sure if Guardiola was aware of his captaincy.

He described the conversation as brief and straightforward, leading directly to his departure for the England camp.

Although uncertain if the opportunity would arise, he expressed happiness about being with the team and anticipation for the upcoming tournament.

McAtee, reportedly attracting interest from clubs like Man Utd, Lyon, Everton, and Leeds, added that the Euros offered him a valuable playing opportunity.

He noted that while content with his game time over the past year, he believes he will have a more significant role in the U21 Euros compared to the Club World Cup.

He highlighted the experience, stating that participating in his first international tournament would be beneficial.

McAtee, who prefers playing as a number 10, admitted he couldn`t keep the news of his captaincy a secret for long.

He recounted: “Lee [Carsley] called me aside, I believe it was last week during training, and informed me.”

He expressed his delight, saying he was “over the moon” and immediately told his parents despite being asked to keep it quiet initially. He considers it a great honor and is very grateful to Carsley.

Winning the tournament would be a lifelong memory for him.

He praised the squad, noting the presence of “special players” and expressing confidence in their ability to win the tournament.

Lee Carsley`s England squad, which included Cole Palmer, won the European Championship title two years prior.

And McAtee acknowledged that the rise of his close friend, Cole Palmer, to prominence with Chelsea and the senior England team serves as motivation for him to use this tournament as a launching pad for his own career.

He commented: “Cole has been my teammate since I was 11 at City. I wouldn`t necessarily call it inspiration, but what he`s achieved at Chelsea is amazing.”

He speculated that the previous U21 tournament might have been a turning point for Palmer, hoping the same will happen for him.

England begins their Euro campaign against Czechia, followed by matches against Slovenia three days later, and concluding the group stage against Germany on Wednesday, June 18.

All of England`s Under-21 matches are scheduled to be broadcast on Channel 4.