Euro 2024: Ones to watch
By Iain Roy
There’s plenty of players to keep an eye out for this summer
As the next instalment of the European Championships takes place this summer in Germany, there are a few players who will be representing their countries who you should keep an eye on. These players have had a breakout season and could be a major component in their country lifting the trophy.
Jude Bellingham
Bellingham is the heartbeat of Gareth Southgate’s side (Image: Getty Images)
As one of the most impactful signings of the summer transfer window, Jude Bellingham has secured himself in the Real Madrid team that could win potentially La Liga and the Champions League. Bellingham has displayed the ability to score a variety of goals and has secured points for Real Madrid, by scoring late goals on multiple occasions. This kind of goalscoring midfielder is a good reason for England fans to be excited going into the tournament. Depending on where Bellingham is played on the pitch, he could come up with some big moments and will help players around him through his playmaking and ball-carrying strengths.
Lamine Yamal
Yamal is the latest in a long line of La Masia graduates (Image: Getty Images)
The 16-year-old La Masia graduate will have a point to prove these Euros as it will be his first major tournament with Spain. Yamal has shown he belongs at the highest level, being the shining light in a struggling Barcelona team, often creating goals by himself, and even scoring in some of the biggest games for Barcelona this season. Expectations are not high for Spain this summer with many countries being tipped above them to win the tournament, but Yamal and the rest of the squad have the talent to go far.
Florian Wirtz
Wirtz could be Germany’s star man this summer (Image: Getty Images)
Wirtz is the heartbeat of the Bayer Leverkusen team, and his form seems to be improving the more the season progresses which is perfect for Germany. Leverkusen are eight games away from completing an invincible treble and Wirtz’s 17 goals and 19 assists have played a part in the club’s success so far. Germany have been disappointing for the past few major tournaments and never seemed to get back on track after the euphoria of their 2014 World Cup win, however, with a lot of younger players coming in such as Wirtz and many others, these players will be eager to give their country something to be excited about this summer.
William Saliba
Saliba could be a standout for France (Image: Getty Images)
The French defender has added to his reputation after an impressive debut season in the Premier League last year, showing once again that he is one of the best centre-backs in world football. He was called up for the World Cup in 2022 and didn’t receive much playing time, but with key players like Raphael Varane now retired from international duty, and Ibrahima Konate struggling with injuries this season, it could be the perfect opportunity for Saliba to break into the starting 11. Saliba’s strength alongside his composure is what sets him apart from other defenders and is a reason for the Gunners’ impenetrability this season. He would definitely improve the team as France aim to lift the trophy.