Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has emphasized that the upcoming friendlies against Guinea and France are a crucial opportunity for his team to evolve their playing style, particularly in possession-based football.
Speaking ahead of the matches, O'Neill stated that the goals are "to enjoy the game and try and get as many players involved, to see the further development of the team. I think as we develop now, our possession-based football — maybe to see an improvement there, as our out-of-possession football has been excellent."
O'Neill, who recently signed a contract extension until 2032, is looking to build momentum after March's World Cup play-off defeat to Italy. The friendlies will serve as preparation for the Nations League, where Northern Ireland faces Georgia, Hungary, and Ukraine.
"Every time we get together, you're hoping that we can further develop. The group is extremely young, it gives us an opportunity to bring in younger players and integrate them," O'Neill added.
Youngsters in the Spotlight
The squad includes uncapped teenagers Braiden Graham and Ceadach O'Neill, who have impressed at Everton and Arsenal respectively, despite not yet making senior appearances for their clubs. O'Neill stressed that no expectations are placed on them.
"We're not putting any expectation on these lads. They've been in our underage system and are still yet to play first-team football, but they're both at big clubs," O'Neill explained. "The next phase — the 18 to 21 period — will determine a lot. They're very much in our plans."
Match Details
Northern Ireland faces Guinea in Spain on 4 June, a first-ever meeting between the sides, before travelling to take on France four days later. Guinea is ranked 10 places below Northern Ireland in the FIFA rankings. O'Neill confirmed they have prepared with the same intensity as for competitive matches.
"We've done the same level of work that we would try to do in a competitive game," O'Neill said.