- Cristiano Ronaldo, at 39, looks to lead Portugal to victory in what could be his final international tournament at UEFA Euro 2024.
- Kylian Mbappe, now captain of France, is ready to dominate Euro 2024 with his exceptional skills and leadership.
- Rising star Lamine Yamal, 16, could be Spain’s secret weapon in their quest for another European Championship title.
The summer of international football is set to kick off on Friday with the opening of UEFA Euro 2024, where Europe’s top international teams will battle for supremacy over the next four years. The UEFA Euro 2024 will run from June 14 to July 14 in Germany, featuring 24 teams in this prestigious continental championship. Italy, placed in Group B, will aim to defend their title after winning the previous edition of the tournament held in 2020.
Players from 24 nations will be striving to add their country’s name to the European Championship roll of honor. From Cristiano Ronaldo to Kylian Mbappe, here are the TOP 5 key players to watch out for in EURO 2024 (one from each nation).
Think you can make better picks? Share your choices in the comments!
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 39, remains unstoppable. In what could be his last international tournament for Portugal, five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo will be looking to sign off on a high. The 2016 Euro winner has had a good season at Al Nassr, scoring 35 goals and providing 11 assists in 31 league games this season.
The latest friendly that Portugal played against Ireland saw Ronaldo score twice and win the Player of the Match with a 9.3 rating. If this game is anything to go by, we’ll see an unstoppable and hungry Ronaldo aiming to win a title to compete with his fierce rival Messi, who has a World Cup win from 2022. He has scored 14 goals in 25 EURO appearances, making him the tournament’s top scorer. As he prepares for a record sixth UEFA EURO, potentially his last, his experience and prowess will be crucial for Portugal. Known for his decisive play in critical moments, the EURO 2016 winner’s legendary status and ability to step up under pressure make him an indispensable player for Portugal and a key figure to watch in EURO 2024.
Toni Kroos (Germany)
Toni Kroos is hanging up his boots after EURO 2024. The German is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders to ever play the game. Kroos, who has already won the La Liga and Champions League with Real Madrid this season, would want to clinch one of the most prestigious titles with his national team.
Despite being 34 years old, Kroos played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s successful season, racking up 10 important assists. He has come out of international retirement to help Germany in this EURO, making him a man on a mission and one to watch.
Kylian Mbappe (France)
No surprise here. Mbappe is arguably the best player on the planet currently. He is an unstoppable force, always playing a pivotal role in France’s games internationally. Whether it’s scoring in the final of World Cup 2018 and helping France win it or in 2022 scoring a hat-trick in the World Cup final, Mbappe has consistently been a game-changer.
This will be the first time Mbappe leads his country in a major tournament as their captain, adding more weight to his already significant role. With 325 goals and 153 assists in 436 games, Mbappe’s exceptional skills make France a formidable contender in EURO 2024. His game-changing abilities ensure he will be a player to watch throughout EURO 2024.
Phil Foden (England)
Phil Foden has emerged as Manchester City’s best player this season, with 17 goals and eight assists. At just 23, Foden carried a star-studded team like Man City to their fourth straight Premier League title. His versatility and creativity are unparalleled in the England squad. The 24-year-old’s versatility allows England boss Gareth Southgate to deploy him in various positions, all of which he can inflict serious damage from.
Behind the striker is perhaps where he can be best utilized, threading delicately weighted passes through to the No. 9 and using his stunning first touch and silky footwork to bamboozle defenders. His experience, know-how, and pedigree make him a crucial player for England in EURO 2024.
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
Kevin De Bruyne’s enduring class remains undeniable. The 32-year-old played in only 18 games of Manchester City’s fourth consecutive Premier League title success but still managed four goals and 10 assists. This was enough to put him in third place in the league’s assist charts.
Belgium’s squad may not be as formidable as in past years, and lackluster performances in the buildup to the Euros haven’t inspired much hope. But with this possibly being De Bruyne’s last chance in the competition, expect him to demonstrate why he’s one of the best midfielders to lace up a pair of boots. As captain, he’ll need to be Belgium’s inspiration.
Surprise Package: Lamine Yamal (Spain)
At just 16 years old, Lamine Yamal already holds extraordinary records: youngest scorer for Barcelona, youngest scorer in La Liga history, and youngest scorer for the Spanish national team. This Spanish wonderkid’s explosive nature on the wings and unique ability to find the back of the net make him one of the best options for Spain in attack at Euro 2024.
Euro 2024 may turn out to be the global coming-out party for the player many believe is one of the greatest 16-year-old prospects ever. Spain, already co-holding the record for European championship victories with Germany at three apiece, might achieve an unprecedented fourth trophy with Yamal’s once-in-a-generation potential.
