Increased Number of Diaspora Players in Squad

Kosovo’s U17 girls’ national team has started its final training camp ahead of the European Championship qualifiers in October. Coach Sanije Krasniqi’s squad will play two friendly matches against Montenegro as direct preparation for official games versus Moldova, Azerbaijan, and Wales, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

According to the Kosovo Football Federation, this gathering follows a June training camp and is crucial before the Group B qualifiers. Krasniqi highlighted that these friendlies will help assess the players' current form and noted that Kosovo and Montenegro are evenly matched, though she believes Kosovo holds a quality edge.

The squad includes 22 players, most local, but with a notable increase in diaspora talent. Some players are already involved in the senior team’s development projects. The coach emphasized the importance of preparing these girls to become professionals and integrate into European football.

Players Leona Maloku and Donjeta Berisha expressed motivation and pride in representing Kosovo. The friendlies will serve as key tests to finalize the best lineup for October’s qualifiers.