Gunter praises exciting young coach Bellamy ahead of Wales U19 Euros 2026

Chris Gunter calls Craig Bellamy one of football's most exciting young coaches as Wales under-19s prepare for the 2026 UEFA Championship finals.

Wales U19 manager praises Bellamy Chris Gunter, who earned 109 caps for Wales, is leading the nation's under-19 team at this summer's UEFA Men's Under-19 Championship finals in north Wales. Gunter described former international teammate and current Wales senior manager Craig Bellamy as one of football's 'most exciting young coaches'. He also highlighted Bellamy's strong involvement with Wales' younger age-group teams and his guidance during Gunter's early coaching days. Gunter said Bellamy's contributions have been invaluable to his development and the progress of Welsh youth football. ## Bellamy’s hands-on approach with young talent Gunter praised Bellamy for generously sharing his time and expertise, saying they speak often so he can learn from one of the game's most promising coaches. He noted Bellamy's deep interest in Welsh young footballers, claiming Bellamy knows each player personally and regularly inquires about their progress and future plans. Gunter also values Bellamy as a trusted advisor for tactical and player-related discussions. Bellamy's extensive knowledge and passion for developing young talent have made him a key figure in Welsh football. ## Former coaches echo Bellamy’s commitment Craig Knight, Gunter's predecessor as Wales under-19 manager and now professional development phase lead coach at Wrexham, has also highlighted Bellamy's hands-on involvement with younger teams. Gunter expects Bellamy to attend the upcoming finals, though he noted that Bellamy typically reviews matches closely even when unable to attend. By midweek after training camps, Bellamy reviews performances and asks detailed questions about individual players and their development. ## Wales prioritizes youth development under Bellamy Gunter emphasized Wales' long-standing commitment to promoting young players aggressively across age groups. He described the current period as especially exciting due to Bellamy's leadership, who has shown a clear philosophy: if a player is good enough, they are ready regardless of age. Gunter pointed out that over the past 12 to 18 months, Bellamy has consistently given opportunities to young players who meet the required standards. ## Rising stars take step up to senior team Several players have transitioned from the under-19s to Bellamy's senior squad in the past year, including Cardiff City defenders Dylan Lawlor and Ronan Kpakio. Oliver Bostock of West Brom and Jayden Lienou of Leeds United were recently called into the senior team for friendlies against Ghana and Romania and are now part of Gunter's under-19 squad for the finals. Gunter noted that Bostock and Lienou missed the recent trip to Spain due to their senior team commitments. He expressed confidence that their experience will benefit them in the upcoming tournament. ## Pathway to senior team remains open for young talent Gunter stressed that the goal is to accelerate young players into the senior team as quickly as possible. He called Bostock and Lienou's rapid progression into the senior squad 'really pleasing' and highlighted their strong club performances. Gunter believes their inclusion proves that consistent performance and the right attributes can lead to senior opportunities under Bellamy and his staff. The pathway is clear: excellence at club level opens doors at international level.