The coach of the Albania national under-21 football team, Alban Bushi, gave a statement to fshf.org following the announcement of the 21 players called up for the friendly match against San Marino, scheduled for October 10 at Air Albania Stadium at 17:00.

Bushi explained his selections, commenting on the forced absences due to injuries of key players like Rashica, Muça, Alili, and Osmani. He described them as important starters who are crucial to the team, noting the limited time the squad has together and the importance of making the most of every training camp to strengthen both play and team cohesion. He added that the new players in the squad are talented and capable of performing well, and that the match against San Marino is an opportunity for everyone to show their potential.

He emphasized that, as U21 coaches, it is challenging because matches occur only about once every two months, and players are committed to their clubs. Every time players join the squad, he expects maximum effort, discipline, and tactical focus. Mistakes in judgment or underestimating opponents are not allowed.

Since Albania qualified as a host nation for the European Championship, every friendly match is treated with the seriousness of a Euro match—even against San Marino. Bushi will use this match to assess which players are worthy of playing in the European Championship, and the players understand that their performance affects future call-ups.

On the opponent, he reiterated that every friendly has the weight of a European Championship match. He praised the character, commitment, and improvement of the team, citing strong performances against Germany and Switzerland, and underlined the importance of fans in the San Marino match.

“I am very satisfied with the group. They are humble, hardworking players, showing daily improvement. We played two strong matches against Germany and Switzerland; despite the losses, we competed until the 90th minute. This shows that we are a team ready to face any opponent. I expected a slower adaptation from this group, but they have integrated quickly, which I am very pleased with. I look forward to the match against San Marino. For us, no opponent is modest; every match is like a European Championship match, including these friendlies.

The match is at Air Albania, the timing is suitable, and I hope fans will attend. Albania is in the European Championship, and the team needs the support of its fans,” concluded Alban Bushi.