Are England and France the Only Clear Contenders as We Look On to Euro 2024?
As Euro 2024 is about to start with the host nation Germany kicking it off on June 14th, fans are filled with excitement at seeing their top contenders rival. All 24 teams are beginning to make their final plans for the tournament, hoping that star players don’t get struck down by injury beforehand and looking to hit the ground running in top form.
England and France are being speculated as the best in this tournament due to their impressive lineups and match history. However, are England and France the only clear contenders as we look to Euro 2024?
England’s Road to 2024 Glory
Key Players
All eyes are on midfielder Jude Bellingham since his stunning season at Real Madrid. However, Harry Kane’s absence has left England’s attack in a challenging situation. Declan Rice looks promising in his midfield role, capable of playing a holding role, so any injury would strongly undermine the success of England in the coming tournament. Fullbacks Luke Shaw and Reece James have been injured back to back, which can hinder their entrance to the starting 11.
Strategy
England’s main aim is to win the cup. Manager Southgate will be judged exclusively based on that. They have managed to reach the finals in the past but have yet to win the cup, as seen in the last cup being lost to Italy in penalties. There are high expectations for the Three Lions to win, but there are some warnings history has taught us in the case of England.
They have never reached beyond the semi-final when playing on foreign soil. They have defeated England in the previous Euro, but losses to Croatia, Italy, and France can create some difficulties in the Euro journey.
France’s Path to Dominance
Key Players
Every eye is focused on one player: Kylian Mbappe, especially since it’s his first time being the captain of his country.
Another key player is Antoine Griezmann, who showed his skills in the 2-0 loss to Germany and the 3-2 win over Chile, as seen on Euro 2024 football betting odds. Other players such as midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery and right-back Malo Gusto are all looking promising.
Strategy
France looks very promising since they have reached three of the past four finals of big tournaments, one of which they have won (World Cup 2018). They have the right mentality, skill, and intelligence, with Kylian Mbappe leading the charge. Their track record in recent tournaments indicates a team well-prepared to go the distance.
Other Contenders in the Mix
Germany
Even though Toni Kroos has reversed his decision to quit international football after 2021, he is set to be the star midfielder of the team as seen in recent friendlies. The Real Madrid player is set to showcase his skills in possession, promising high performance. This has sparked a swap regarding Ilkay Gundogan since Kroos is back on the field.
Coach Julian Nagelsmann also has high expectations for the top two young prospects, Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz, of Bayern and Leverkusen respectively. Veterans Leon Goretzka and Mats Hummels are going to miss out on Euro 2024, despite their impressive performances, as Coach Nagelsmann doesn’t intend to change the squad.
The team is capable of winning Group A and passing the Round of 16 but has a tough time playing against teams who play behind the ball.
Spain
Spain has an impressive lineup of key players, such as Rodri, Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Alvaro Morata, who have delivered impressive performances in recent games for their clubs. But Spain will miss out on players such as Ferran Torres, Gerard Moreno, and Ansu Fati.
They are expected to qualify for the quarterfinals, acknowledging that other countries have better players. However, it’s not an impossible task for Spain to qualify for the finals and win the championship.
Italy
Goalkeeper and captain Gianluigi Donnarumma is crucial, and Italy needs him to bring back his form from Euro 2020. Nicolo Barella leads the midfield, and Alessandro Bastoni is in charge of the backline. Marco Verratti won’t be playing, and there are doubts about playing winger Federico Chiesa due to his mediocre performance and poor fitness.
Italy faces a tough group with Spain, Albania, and Croatia, posing a difficult challenge. But the Euro Cup comes with uncertainties, so anything is possible.
To Wrap it Up
England and France undoubtedly stand out as top contenders for Euro 2024. Their impressive lineups and match histories make them favourites. However, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Portugal also pose significant threats. The depth and talent across these teams promise an exciting and unpredictable tournament. While England and France may lead the pack, the beauty of football lies in its uncertainty. Fans should prepare for a thrilling competition as Europe’s best compete for the ultimate prize.