Wonderkids assemble! Under-21 Euros in 2027 to be held in Albania and Serbia as England aim to defend title won in 2023

Relations between the two countries have been fraught for decades but they are aiming to unite as they welcome Europe's finest young talent to their shores in two years' time. England are the current holders of the title and are aiming to defend their crown in Slovakia this summer.

Albania and Serbia matches have been shrouded in controversy in recent years, with a Euro 2016 qualifier in Belgrade cancelled when a Greater Albania flag was flown onto the pitch during the match, before their rivalry became one of the talking points of Euro 2024, even though they did not play each other. The two federations are determined to improve relations, however, which has prompted this successful joint-bid.

UEFA said in a statement: "The UEFA Executive Committee met today and decided on the appointment of the hosts for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship final tournament in 2027. The 16-team tournament is scheduled to be played at four stadiums in Albania (Tirana, Shkodër, Elbasan and Rrogozhinë) and four stadiums in Serbia (Novi Sad, Loznica, Leskovac and Zaječar). The opening match will take place in Serbia and the final will be held in Albania."

This summer's competition in Slovakia is set to be played first, with Lee Carsley's Young Lions going in as holders. Carsley temporarily took charge of England's senior team in 2024 but is back in his day job in time to lead his side into the tournament, where they will play Czech Republic, Germany and Slovakia.