After a long absence, the European national teams came back on the pitch this month for the start of the Nations League new campaign. This first international break since November 2019 was the opportunity for several youngsters seen at the Maurice Revello Tournament to earn their first international cap.
Jack Grealish (England)
Gone are the days when Jack Grealish was criticized for his inconsistency and his behavior. The attacking midfielder, winner of the Maurice Revello Tournament 2016, has shone for Aston Villa over the last two seasons (70 games, 14 goals). Thanks to his recent performances, the Aston Villa captain helped his side to avoid relegation and the Birmingham native has been rewarded by a first ever call-up to the England senior squad by Gareth Southgate. He came off the bench during the 0-0 draw against Denmark this Tuesday and positioned himself as a serious candidate for a spot in the England squad for the next Euro on June.
Adam Idah and Jayson Molumby (Ireland)
One year after helping Ireland U21 to secure a fourth place at the Maurice Revello Tournament 2019, Adam Idah and Jayson Molumby made their debut with the Ireland senior team during this international break. Idah was the first to being handed a full international debut as he has been included in the starting XI against Bulgaria (1-1) last Thursday. Then, both Idah and Molumby started the game against Finland (0-1) last Sunday. Molumby has notably distinguished himself thanks to his workrate and his technical abilities. Named fourth best player of the Maurice Revello Tournament 2019, Molumby has repaid the faith placed in him by Stephen Kenny, who is now in charge of the Ireland senior team after leading brilliantly Ireland U21 at the Maurice Revello Tournament 2019.
Francisco Trincão (Portugal)
This is a year to remember for the Portugal rising star. On January, Trincao has been signed by FC Barcelona from SC Braga in a €30M deal. Recently, the Portugal head coach Fernando Santos has selected the youngster for the first time ever, certainly impressed by his performances with Braga (39 games and 9 goals in all competitions). The Maurice Revello Tournament 2018 graduate has played his first minutes with the Seleçao during the 4-1 win over Croatia on Saturday. Now, it’s time for Trincao to continue his development with his new side, FC Barcelona.
Mathieu Lauricella