The Albanian U-21 national team is entering the final phase of preparations for another important international adventure. Coach Alban Bushi has announced the list of players gathered for participation in the Mediterranean Games "Taranto 2026", which will be held in Italy.
The red and black coach's list includes footballers who are active in the Albanian championship, but also talents who are developing their experience abroad, giving the group an important combination of experience gained in domestic and international football.
Most of the players come from teams in the Albanian Premier League and the First Division, while the group also includes footballers engaged in academies and teams from European championships, including the Netherlands, Greece and Italy.
Skander Tahri and Amarildo Dervishaj are in the goalkeeping department, while the defense is represented by Arlind Leshi, Antonis Dama, Aurel Marku, Rajmond Marinaj, Kevi Mejdani, Renato Halili and Valentin Daja.
The midfield includes Ersi Bode, Bjorni Duka, Oresti Kasmollari, Orgito Ruçi and Jordi Jaku, while the alternatives on the attack wings are Hetem Lushaj, Kristi Bespallov, Emiljano Mihana and Nebi Qokthi.
This list represents another opportunity for young Albanian footballers to gain experience in a high-level international competition, as Albania will face Italy, Kosovo and Algeria in Group B.
The Reds will begin their adventure on August 22, with a challenge against Italy in Lecce, to then continue with Kosovo and Algeria.
Participation in "Taranto 2026" gives the U-21 National Team another important platform for talent development and representing Albania in an important multi-sport event in the Mediterranean region.
