Gunter's mentoring journey as Wales host U19 Euros

From player to coach

Chris Gunter was 17 when he made his senior Wales debut in 2007. Now 36, he is head coach of Wales Under-19s, who begin their European Championship campaign on Sunday at the Racecourse in Wrexham. Gunter retired from playing after the 2022-23 season and joined the FAW as a development coach. He took charge of the U19s in 2024, having previously coached the U17s. His players, born around the time of his debut, admire his achievements. Defender Stan Dancey says: "We all look up to him. He's been there, done everything." Midfielder Adam Brett calls him a great role model.

Echoes of Euro 2016

Gunter was a key figure in Wales' historic Euro 2016 semi-final run, playing all six games. His cross set up Sam Vokes' header in the 3-1 win over Belgium. Many players remember that summer vividly. Cardiff's Jac Thomas, then a nine-year-old, recalls watching matches in school and replicating moves in the yard. Brett remembers Gareth Bale's free-kick and the victory over Belgium. Gunter's chin-up gesture to fans after the loss to England became an iconic image.

Tough group stage

Wales U19s face Spain, Germany, and Denmark in Group A. Group B includes Croatia, Serbia, Italy, and Ukraine. Despite the challenge, Brett says: "We know we're playing the best, but we believe in ourselves." Dancey hopes the team can create memories as fond as Gunter's. The tournament features eight teams, and Wales aim to make an impact.