The West Ham midfielder, Mateus Fernandes, is taking on a fresh challenge. He has officially joined the leadership group for the Under-21 national team. This big step came with the full backing of coach Luís Freire. Fernandes shared this news as the team geared up for their match against Azerbaijan this Friday in Barcelos.
This new chapter for the Under-21 squad feels like a fresh start for everyone involved. Mateus Fernandes sees it as a new phase not just for the players, but for the coaching staff too. The goal is clear: win games and show their unique style of play. He noted that players and staff have worked hard to support each other. Everyone is eager to wear the national team jersey, calling it a truly special moment in any player’s career.
Fernandes, a seasoned player for the U21s over the past two years, now carries even more weight on his shoulders. He gladly accepted his new role as one of the captains. He sees leadership as something he has always aimed for. It is vital to have strong voices within any team, he explained. He always made sure to learn from older captains, seeing how they helped teammates through tough times. This current squad is quite different from the one two years ago, so the more experienced players must guide the newcomers.
The excitement for this first game is palpable. Playing for the national team is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, no matter the age group. It is the kind of dream every young football fan holds close. For players living and training abroad, it adds another layer of meaning. Being back, enjoying local food, and speaking their native tongue makes everything feel deeper. They know Azerbaijan will be a tough opponent, but the Portuguese side trusts in its abilities.
Looking back, the team has faced similar challenges. Mateus remembered past games against teams like Belarus and Croatia. Those matches were incredibly hard to win because they lacked patience. Now, the team is smarter. They know when to push hard and how to find gaps in the opposition’s defense. With their quality, they are confident they can break through. They are focused and determined to secure a victory.