Premier League Stars to Watch at Euro 2024
The upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany will see several Premier League stars donning their national colors and aiming to lead their teams to glory. Here’s a look at 10 standout players who could significantly impact the tournament:
1. Bukayo Saka (England)
- Club: Arsenal
- Position: Right Winger
- Age: 22
Bukayo Saka has become a key player for both Arsenal and England. Known for his versatility and attacking prowess, Saka is expected to be a crucial part of Gareth Southgate’s plans. His resilience and skill could help England build on their previous Euro 2020 final appearance.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: Saka’s ability to play on either wing and his knack for crucial goals and assists make him a vital asset for England. Expect him to provide creativity and threat from the flanks, potentially being one of the standout young players of the tournament.
2. William Saliba (France)
- Club: Arsenal
- Position: Center-Back
- Age: 23
Despite facing tough competition in France’s defense, Saliba’s performances for Arsenal have been outstanding. His defensive solidity and ability to play out from the back could see him make a significant impact if given the chance by Didier Deschamps.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: If Saliba can replicate his club form, he could become a key figure in France’s defense, providing stability and composure, especially against strong attacking teams.
3. Rodri (Spain)
- Club: Manchester City
- Position: Defensive Midfielder
- Age: 27
Rodri is pivotal in both Manchester City’s and Spain’s midfield. His defensive capabilities, combined with his passing range and tactical awareness, make him indispensable.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: Expect Rodri to anchor Spain’s midfield, breaking up play and initiating attacks. His partnership with players like Pedri will be crucial for Spain’s aspirations in the tournament.
4. Bruno Fernandes (Portugal)
- Club: Manchester United
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Age: 29
Bruno Fernandes is the creative engine for both Manchester United and Portugal. His vision, passing, and goal-scoring ability make him a key player for Portugal as they aim to make a deep run in the tournament.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: Fernandes will likely be the central playmaker, creating chances and driving the attack for Portugal. His leadership and experience will be crucial in high-pressure situations.
5. Phil Foden (England)
- Club: Manchester City
- Position: Attacking Midfielder/Winger
- Age: 24
Phil Foden’s creativity and technical skill have shone at Manchester City. He is expected to play a central role in England’s attacking setup, offering versatility and flair.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: Foden’s ability to unlock defenses with his dribbling and passing will be key for England. He could be a game-changer, particularly in tight matches where creativity is needed to break down stubborn defenses.
6. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
- Club: Manchester City
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Age: 32
Kevin De Bruyne is Belgium’s talisman and one of the best midfielders in the world. His vision, passing, and shooting make him a constant threat to any defense.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: De Bruyne will orchestrate Belgium’s attack, linking up with forwards like Lukaku to create scoring opportunities. His ability to deliver in crucial moments will be pivotal for Belgium’s success.
7. Josko Gvardiol (Croatia)
- Club: Manchester City
- Position: Center-Back
- Age: 22
Gvardiol’s defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively make him a key player for Croatia. His performances at the World Cup showcased his potential to be a cornerstone of Croatia’s defense.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: Gvardiol will be expected to provide solidity and leadership at the back, potentially forming a formidable partnership with Croatia’s experienced defenders. His contributions in set-pieces could also be crucial.
8. Rasmus Hojlund (Denmark)
- Club: Manchester United
- Position: Striker
- Age: 21
Hojlund has emerged as a prolific goal-scorer for Denmark and Manchester United. His physical presence and goal-scoring ability will be crucial for Denmark’s attacking ambitions.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: Hojlund will be Denmark’s main goal threat, expected to lead the line and provide a focal point for their attack. His ability to score in crucial moments could be decisive for Denmark’s campaign.
9. Diogo Jota (Portugal)
- Club: Liverpool
- Position: Forward
- Age: 27
Jota’s versatility and goal-scoring knack make him a valuable asset for Portugal. Despite recent injury setbacks, his ability to play across the front line adds depth to Portugal’s attack.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: Jota will likely play a key role in Portugal’s forward rotation, providing options both centrally and on the wings. His experience and goal-scoring ability will be essential in tight matches.
10. Romelu Lukaku (Belgium)
- Club: Chelsea (on loan to Roma)
- Position: Striker
- Age: 31
Lukaku has been a consistent goal-scorer for Belgium and remains a crucial part of their attack. His physicality and finishing ability make him a constant threat in front of goal.
- Euro 2024 Outlook: Lukaku will lead Belgium’s attack, expected to score crucial goals and hold up play. His experience and proven track record in international tournaments will be vital for Belgium’s chances.
Conclusion
These Premier League stars have the potential to make significant impacts at Euro 2024, contributing their skills and experience to their national teams’ quests for European glory. From seasoned veterans like De Bruyne and Lukaku to rising talents like Saka and Gvardiol, their performances will be key to their nations’ success in Germany.
Premier League Stars to Watch at Euro 2024