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The Euro 2024 has kicked off! The host nation cruised their opening match in Munich defeated Scotland 5-1. The Euro 2024 tournament gives us the chance to witness the rise of a new generation of footballing stars. We delve into the stories of six young players who are ready to take the spotlight. From England’s midfield maestro Jude Bellingham to Portugal’s rising star Rafael Leao, these talents boast a unique blend of skill, potential, and ambition. Don’t miss out on these future greats as they light up the Euro 2024 stage.
Jude Bellingham – England
England’s Jude Bellingham has had a meteoric rise. People questioned Birmingham City retiring his number 22 after just 41 games, but his talent silenced the critics. Even as a teenager, he looked comfortable on the international stage at the 2022 World Cup. He shone in his first season at Borussia Dortmund, even winning best newcomer.
Now at Real Madrid, his versatility is a huge asset. He can play anywhere in midfield and even bagged 19 goals in 28 appearances as a second striker. Fresh off his Champions League win with Real Madrid, he’ll be hungry for more. This Euros could be his chance to truly shine and challenge for the Ballon d’Or with a strong performance. With his high profile and immense potential, Euro 2024 is the perfect platform for him to prove the hype is real.
Rafael Leao – Portugal
Portugal might be living in Cristiano Ronaldo’s shadow, but Rafael Leao is ready to step out. The AC Milan star has been tearing up Serie A for a few seasons now, becoming one of Europe’s hottest properties. He recently extended his contract and inherited the prestigious number 10 jersey, showing his commitment to Milan. A dangerous dribbler with an eye for goal, Leao can play wide, cutting inside or making runs into the box. He’s also comfortable as a second striker. At 25, he’s eager to make his mark and has secured a regular spot on the Portuguese team.
Xavi Simons – Netherlands
This Dutch wonderkid Xavi Simons has been on everyone’s radar for years. A product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, he excelled there before joining PSG at 16. Training alongside Lionel Messi must have been incredible! Back in the Netherlands with PSV, he showcased his skills – passing, dribbling, and goalscoring – leading to calls for national team inclusion. He didn’t see much action in the World Cup, but Euro 2024 could be his breakout tournament.
Lamine Yamal – Spain
Another La Masia graduate, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal is one of Europe’s hottest prospects. Yamal became Barcelona’s youngest debutant in over a century at just 15! Comparisons to Messi follow him, but his dribbling and playmaking abilities are undeniable. He has the maturity and confidence to be part of the Spanish setup for a long time. Given his age, he might not start a lot in Euro 2024, but expect him to be an impact substitute. Watch out for him competing for a starting role if he shines early on.
Kylian Mbappe – France
A household name, Kylian Mbappé burst onto the scene as a teenager with AS Monaco in the Champions League. His career has been phenomenal, playing in two consecutive World Cup finals – winning in 2018 and narrowly missing out in 2022. The second player ever to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final, he has a total of 4 World Cup final goals! Now at Real Madrid, he’ll be looking to add a Euro 2024 winner’s medal to his collection. He’s the star of the tournament and arguably the best of his generation. With his elite dribbling, blistering pace, and pinpoint finishing, Mbappé is the complete package. All eyes will be on the French captain as he leads his team.
Jamal Musiala – Germany
The opening match saw Germany win 5-1 against Scotland, with Jamal Musiala as the standout performer. The Bayern Munich midfielder/forward is versatile, playing as a second striker, number 10, or cutting in from the wing. One of Europe’s best dribblers, his mesmerizing style demonstrates incredible balance and composure. Born in Germany but raised in England, Musiala played for England’s youth teams. There’s been speculation about him potentially playing for England, but he’s been in Germany for a while and shining for Bayern. With his ability to create chances and score goals and impressive start to Euro 2024, expect him to be a contender for Young Player of the Tournament.
