Nineteen-year-old Mikel Gogorza made his Denmark U21 debut on Tuesday in European Championship qualifying away to Belgium. Denmark were beaten, but the former academy player welcomed the step up to the U21 level.
Gogorza had previously represented Denmark at U18 and U19. He came on as a substitute against Belgium, marking his first appearance for the U21s.
Transition to U21 Football
He noted a clear jump in intensity and quality at this level, pointing out that U21 squads are filled with players already involved in senior football, something that shows in both training and matches.
The midfielder has recently returned from a muscle injury sustained in August after the game against Silkeborg. Following a longer rehabilitation period, he made his club comeback in a draw against F.C. Copenhagen at Parken. His recovery included strength and mobility work with FC Midtjylland’s physical staff. He acknowledged the process felt lengthy but considered it necessary to avoid setbacks.
Gogorza said he is not yet at full speed and still needs more match minutes, but he expects those to come with a busy schedule ahead. He emphasized he is working hard and aims to be fully up to speed soon.
FC Midtjylland sit second in the 3F Superliga and are also near the top of their Europa League league-phase group after taking maximum points from their first two matches. Gogorza believes the high level at his club has prepared him well for U21 duty and is aiming for more national team call-ups in the future, noting that an initial camp helped him get to know the squad and coach.
FC Midtjylland face Vejle in the next round of the 3F Superliga, and Gogorza’s performance will be crucial as he seeks to solidify his position both in his club and the national team.