The highly anticipated UEFA EURO 2024 tournament is approaching, and the spotlight shines on a group of exceptional players who are set to captivate audiences across Europe, and all over the world.
From rising stars to seasoned veterans, these individuals have the potential to make a lasting impact on the outcome of this prestigious competition, and here they are:
1. Jude Bellingham (England)
The 20-year-old English midfield sensation, has been the talk of the soccer world in the recent past. His superb display for Real Madrid last season saw him voted La Liga’s Player of the Season in his first year in Spain.
On his shoulders, he now carries the hopes of a soccer-mad nation, who are not only favourites but are also thirsty for their first EURO trophy. With his power, creativity, and eye for goal, Bellingham is poised to be a key figure for ‘The Three Lions’ as they look to take the trophy to England for the first time.
A superb performance by Bellingham at the Euros could also put him in contention for his first-ever Ballon d’Or accolade.
2. Kylian Mbappe (France)
The French forward has cemented his status as one of the brightest stars in the game. Since joining PSG from Monaco as a teenager, Mbappe has established himself as a lethal striker, boasting an incredible goal-scoring record and a record for delivering in crucial moments.
His soaring pace and clinical finishing could prove vital for ‘Les Bleus’, who aim to win the EURO for the third time, and equal hosts Germany and Spain’s record as record champions of the competition.
Having scored 43 goals for PSG in the previous season in all competitions, and helping them win their 12th League One trophy, Mbappe will be aiming to do the same for his country, something that may put him in contention for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
3. Harry Kane (England)
England’s captain, Harry Kane, is another player to watch closely. The Bayern Munich striker is the all-time leading scorer for his national team, and his goal-scoring prowess will be crucial in England’s quest for European glory.
Harry Kane scored 36 league goals for Bayern Munich in the just concluded Bundesliga season, something that enabled him to win this year’s European Golden Shoe.
The 30-year old’s finishing skill will be a force to be reckoned with for England, and with players like Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham to supply him, Harry Kane will surely be a player to watch.
4. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
The legendary Portuguese forward, is defying the march of time and is expected to be a key player for Portugal at 39.
Ronaldo’s experience, skill, and ability to deliver in big moments make him a constant threat to any opposition, as portrayed in EURO 2016, where he helped his country clinch their first-ever European triumph. With retirement knocking on his door, Ronaldo will aim to end his illustrious career on a high, and proving all his doubters wrong.
Ronaldo will come into this competition with a lot of form and confidence, having broken the Saudi League record for most goals in a season with 35 goals in 31 games, something that made him the first-ever player to be the league’s top scorer in four different countries.
5. Rodri (Spain)
The Manchester City and Spain midfielder, will be a vital part in the midfield engine room for the La Roja. His strength, intelligence, and ability to control the tempo of the game could be the difference for Spain as they aim to recapture the magic of their past triumphs.
Despite Man City’s loss to local rivals Man United in the FA Cup final on May 25th, Rodri still holds the longest unbeaten streak in European football history having 74 games unbeaten. He’ll hope to bounce back from the cup final loss and restart his art of never losing with Spain at the Euros.
6. Jamal Musiala (Germany)
The 21-year-old Bayern Munich sensation is a rising star in German soccer. The versatile midfielder has quickly won over fans with his impressive combination of precision and goal-scoring ability and will be a key player for the host nation, Germany.
7. Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy)
The towering Italian goalkeeper was named the Player of the Tournament of EURO 2020 when he helped his nation secure the title.
He will be looking to inspire “Gli Azzurri” once again as they seek to defend their title and bounce back from their failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
8. Luka Modric (Croatia)
The never-ageing Croatian midfielder has been the heartbeat of his nation’s midfield for nearly a decade. At 38 years old, the Real Madrid maestro’s creative influence and leadership will be crucial as Croatia aim to replicate their 2018 World Cup success, where they became finalists.
9. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
The Manchester City and Belgium playmaker is one of the two remaining players of his nation’s “Golden Generation”, the other being Axel Witsel.
De Bruyne’s vision, passing, and goal-scoring ability make him a constant threat and will be pivotal in inspiring the youngsters to secure Belgium’s first-ever triumph at the Euros.
With EURO 2024 set to kick off on June 14th, keep your eyes on NBS Sport who secured broadcasting rights for the tournament.
