Following the play-offs, the ultimate line-up for Euro 2024 has been confirmedFrance and England are among the many favourites to win this summer time’s tournamentSecrets of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s £2,500-a-night suite in Manchester – Take heed to the It is All Kicking Off podcast
The most recent worldwide break is perhaps over, however the narratives and debates surrounding varied nationwide groups are solely more likely to develop within the run-up to Euro 2024.
With the conclusion of Tuesday’s play-off finals, the 24 groups who will likely be competing in Germany this summer time have lastly been confirmed.
The likes of France, England, Germany and Portugal are among the many bookies’ favourites to win the event, which will get underway when the hosts tackle Scotland in Munich on June 14.
In the meantime, Georgia will likely be competing at their first main event after a dramatic victory over Greece on penalties within the play-off last, whereas a number of different rising footballing nations equivalent to Albania and Romania will hope to make their mark on the massive stage.
Under, Mail Sport offers you the lowdown on all 24 groups, together with who to look out for, how they bought to Euro 2024 and which coaches will likely be hoping to write down themselves into the report books this summer time.
Following the conclusion of the play-offs, the ultimate line-up for Euro 2024 has been confirmed Italy are the reigning champions after they beat England within the Euro 2020 last on penalties
Group A
Germany
It has been a tricky time for Germany over current years, with this summer time’s hosts crashing out within the group stage at successive World Cups, whereas additionally they endured a disappointing last-16 exit to England at Euro 2020.
They’ve confronted a equally tumultuous interval since, with a dire run of type in a collection of worldwide friendlies – given they do not need to qualify for Euro 2024 – seeing them lose 5 out of eight video games within the aftermath of the 2022 World Cup.
This included defeats to Japan, Colombia, Poland, Austria and Turkey, ensuing within the departure of Hansi Flick and the appointment of Julian Nagelsmann as supervisor.
There had been fears amongst Germany followers that this summer time might become a completely embarrassing one.
Nevertheless, victories in opposition to France and the Netherlands over the previous week have raised hopes once more and you’ll by no means rule out the Germans in a significant event.
After a tough run for Germany, victories over France and the Netherlands have raised hopes Toni Kroos’ return to Germany’s aspect after three years away might show to be a masterstroke
One to observe – Toni Kroos
Whereas maybe not your extraordinary ‘one to observe’ candidate, the reversal of Toni Kroos’ worldwide retirement, bringing an finish to a three-year exile from the nationwide workforce, has seemingly already had a transformational influence on Nagelsmann’s aspect.
He helped to stabilise an under-performing midfield and even laid on an help inside seven seconds on his return in opposition to France, with Nagelsmann labelling him ‘unbelievable’ and an ‘extraordinary participant’ after that conflict.
Supervisor – Julian Nagelsmann
There isn’t any doubt Nagelsmann’s sacking by Bayern Munich final 12 months was a significant setback for one in all Germany’s most highly-rated coaches.
With three wins from six video games, he nonetheless has heaps to show accountable for the nationwide workforce, however performances over the previous week counsel the 36-year-old is beginning to get his concepts throughout.
Hazard Ranking: 4/5
Scotland loved a memorable qualification marketing campaign to achieve their second Euros in a row
Scotland
Steve Clarke deserves monumental credit score for guiding Scotland to their second successive Euros after the Tartan Military had beforehand skilled a 14-year hiatus from the competitors.
He oversaw a memorable qualification marketing campaign that included a victory over Spain, earlier than they secured their place in Germany with two video games to spare.
With one defeat over eight video games, Clarke has constructed a massively spectacular younger workforce, though heavy defeats to England, France and the Netherlands, plus a shock loss to Northern Eire on Tuesday, have tempered expectations, with Scotland having not gained in seven video games.
One to observe – Scott McTominay
Scott McTominay’s seven targets in eight qualifying video games have been solely bettered by Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane, demonstrating how spectacular the Man United midfielder was.
The 27-year-old can be having fun with his most prolific season at membership degree and if Scotland are to make their mark in Germany, McTominay’s late bursts into the field should be timed to perfection.
Supervisor – Steve Clarke
The previous West Brom boss has been a revelation since taking on Scotland in 2019, successful virtually half of his 53 video games in cost – a report unthinkable on the time of his appointment.
However not solely has he massively improved issues on the pitch, however the entire of Scotland is firmly united behind their workforce and that’s one thing which might show to be highly effective in Germany this summer time.
Hazard Ranking: 2/5
Steve Clarke has taken Scotland to new heights lately and constructed a formidable aspect
Hungary
The proverbial ‘darkish horses’ forward of this event, Hungary’s rising soccer stature was on full show once they thumped England 4-0 within the Nations League in 2022.
With a proficient technology led by Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai, the Japanese European nation are on a 14 match unbeaten streak and can fancy their probabilities of inflicting some upsets this summer time after an unbeaten qualifying marketing campaign.
One to observe – Dominik Szoboszlai
The 23-yearold is the poster boy for this new crop of Hungarian expertise and his influence at Anfield since his £60m transfer has been immense.
Szoboszlai is a hero at dwelling and he already has 17 purpose contributions in simply 40 caps, highlighting his significance to Marco Rossi’s aspect.
Supervisor – Marco Rossi
Skilled Italian coach Rossi had endured considerably of a nomadic profession throughout the decrease leagues of Italy, Hungary and Slovakia earlier than taking on the Hungarian nationwide workforce in 2018.
However his influence has proved to be transformative, overseeing 32 wins in 62 video games which included a formidable second place end in a Nations League group alongside England, Germany and Italy.
Hazard Ranking – 3/5
Hungary have been tipped at this event’s darkish horses after a formidable few years Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai is the poster boy for this new technology of Hungarian expertise
Switzerland
Switzerland have certified for the knockout levels on the 5 most up-to-date tournaments they have been at and their skilled squad will hope to take action once more.
A number of acquainted names equivalent to Granit Xhaka, Xherdan Shaqiri and Fabian Schar are all on the mistaken aspect of 30, however they need to have at the very least one final event in them.
Nevertheless, Murat Yakin’s aspect might want to enhance following a reasonably underwhelming qualifying marketing campaign that noticed them win simply 4 of their 10 video games and end 5 factors adrift of minnows Romania.
Switzerland’s skilled squad will hope to proceed their strong, if unspectacular report
One to observe – Granit Xhaka
It’s arduous to look previous Switzerland’s most-capped participant, with Granit Xhaka making his 123rd worldwide look in opposition to the Republic of Eire on Tuesday.
The midfielder, who’s having fun with a superb season with Bayer Leverkusen, will must be at his tempo-setting finest if Yakin’s outfit are to be a power to be reckoned with in Germany.
Supervisor – Murat Yakin
The previous Swiss defender is one other to endure a nomadic profession, with Yakin managing six golf equipment in his homeland, plus Spartak Moscow, though he has by no means spent greater than two years in a job.
His report with the nationwide workforce is respectable, as Yakin has gained 14 of his 32 video games in cost.
Hazard Ranking – 2/5
Nomadic boss Murat Yakin has gained 14 of his 32 video games accountable for since taking on in 2021
Group B
Spain
After a tumultuous interval off the sphere for Spanish soccer, Luis de la Fuente has restored calm on the pitch for the boys’s workforce, with Spain one other aspect fancied for glory at Euro 2024.
His squad sees a mixture of massively promising younger stars equivalent to Pau Cubarsi, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, coupled with skilled campaigners like Aymeric Laporte, Rodri and Alvaro Morata.
A 1-0 defeat by Colombia and 3-3 draw in opposition to Brazil over the previous week hints that this aspect is in no way the completed product, however La Roja will nonetheless have excessive hopes heading into Germany.
One to observe – Lamine Yamal
Whereas it’s arduous to place an excessive amount of expectation on a 16-year-old, every thing about Yamal hints he’s a star of the current and future.
After turning into Spain’s youngest-ever participant, he additionally turned their youngest scorer when netting on his debut in opposition to Georgia and the Barcelona wonderkid might be on the point of a breakout summer time.
Supervisor – Luis de la Fuente
The strong if unspectacular candidate to take over from Luis Enrique, De La Fuente is aware of his squad from time working as Spain’s Beneath 19, Beneath 21 and Beneath 23s boss.
Regardless of the unassuming nature of his appointment, Spain have scored a whopping 30 targets in simply 12 video games in cost, exhibiting they aren’t ones to be taken flippantly this summer time.
Hazard Ranking: 4/5
Luis de la Fuente was a strong if unspectacular appointment however he is overseen regular progress Lamine Yamal might be Spain’s key man, regardless of the Barcelona wonderkid nonetheless solely being 16
Croatia
Regardless of a inhabitants of simply over 4 million, Croatia proceed to overachieve in worldwide tournaments.
Though many groups had supposed higher squads on paper on the 2022 World Cup, Zlatko Dalic’s aspect turned larger than the sum of their elements and secured a shocking third place end.
Croatia’s qualifying show wasn’t their finest given they solely edged out Wales in the course of the last spherical of fixtures, however their event performances, plus a second place end within the Nations League means they’re more likely to upset the chances once more in what’s going to certainly be Luka Modric’s final dance.
One to observe – Mateo Kovacic
Mateo Kovacic typically goes slightly below the radar because of the esteemed firm he has in midfield, however the Man Metropolis star’s position in Croatia’s success can not go unnoticed.
Kovacic will convey class and poise alongside Modric and is about to win his a centesimal cap this summer time, demonstrating how essential he’s to his nation’s success.
Supervisor – Zlatko Dalic
Over his seven-year tenure, Dalic has taken Croatia above and past their goals, combining his skilled stars with a number of promising younger abilities.
With a win ratio of precisely 50 per cent – and his report in main tournaments – Dalic continues to do a superb job.
Hazard Ranking – 3.5/5
Mateo Kovacic typically goes slightly below the radar however he might be Croatia’s star this summer time Zlatko Dalic’s aspect will hope to construct on the success of their third place end in Qatar in 2022
Italy
The Azzurri have been mired in chaos in the summertime when Roberto Mancini walked out to affix Saudi Arabia simply earlier than crunch qualifying video games in opposition to North Macedonia and Ukraine.
Nevertheless, Luciano Spalletti stepped in and regardless of additional off-field chaos in subsequent worldwide breaks, the previous Napoli boss helped Italy qualify for Euro 2024 by advantage of a superior head-to-head report on Ukraine.
Regardless of their Euro 2020 triumph, Italy’s main event report over the previous decade has been fairly dismal and their place as a fourth seed this time round is unlikely to assist.
Nevertheless, with a squad stuffed with expertise, Italy will hope to beat this and remind everybody that it’s only a fluke they have not reached a World Cup since 2014.
One to observe – Mateo Retegui
A significant wrestle for Italy over current years has been in assault, with a succession of strikers tried with out success.
However a 24-year-old born in Argentina might simply show to be the reply with Mateo Retegui, who was naturalised in March of final 12 months, having now netted 4 targets in six caps for the Azzurri.
For all of Italy’s technical qualities in midfield, Retegui’s targets might show to be the distinction come the summer time.
Supervisor – Luciano Spalletti
Parachuted in when Italian soccer was verging on disaster, Spalletti deserves big credit score for navigating Italy to Euro 2024.
A highly-rated coach all through his time in Italy, his excessive watermark got here when lifting Serie A with Napoli final 12 months, earlier than he answered the decision from his nation in September after beforehand planning to take a year-long sabbatical at his Tuscan farm.
Hazard Ranking – 3.5/5
Former Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti deserves big credit score for serving to Italy attain Euro 2024 Argentinian-born striker Mateo Retegui might be the reply to Italy’s attacking struggles
Albania
A fast scan of Albania’s squad would see few names acquainted with Premier League followers bar Fulham striker Armando Broja and Brentford reserve keeper Thomas Strakosha.
Nevertheless, after reaching their first and solely ever main event at Euro 2016, it’s proving to be considerably of a Golden Technology after Albania topped a qualifying group that included Poland and the Czech Republic.
Successive defeats to Chile and Sweden spotlight the duty at hand, however Albania beforehand romped to the event by having fun with an eight-match unbeaten run.
One to observe – Armando Broja
Though the Chelsea loanee has struggled for type and gametime since swapping Stamford Bridge for Craven Cottage, excessive expectations are on Broja’s shoulders if Albania are to trigger hassle for his or her Euro 2024 opponents.
With 4 targets in 19 caps, the Slough-born striker’s performances will likely be key for the nation the place his mother and father have been born.
Supervisor – Sylvinho
Former Barcelona and Arsenal left again Sylvinho continues to have a formidable influence with Albania after quick stints managing Corinthians and Lyon.
So as to add much more intrigue to his story and the way he turned coach of a rustic gentle years away from his native Brazil in soccer phrases, his assistant coach is former Man Metropolis favorite Pablo Zabaleta.
Hazard Ranking – 1.5/5
Albania will likely be hoping to have an effect at what’s simply their second ever main event Ex-Barcelona star Sylvinho (proper) is assisted by Man Metropolis favorite Pablo Zabaleta (third proper)
Group C
Slovenia
Qualifying routinely for Euro 2024 was a memorable second for Slovenia, who’ve reached their first European Championship since 2000.
That makes their rise over the previous few years much more spectacular after Slovenia gained seven of their 10 video games and completed on the identical variety of factors as Denmark in qualifying.
Tuesday’s memorable 2-0 victory over Portugal made it seven victories in 9 and the show will present Matjaz Kek’s aspect with loads of optimism for Euro 2024.
One to observe – Benjamin Sesko
Regardless of long-term Atletico Madrid keeper Jan Oblak serving to to carry the aspect collectively, Benjamin Sesko is likely one of the hottest-rated strikers on the planet proper now.
After two spectacular seasons with Pink Bull Salzburg, he has equally impressed since switching to their sister membership RB Leipzig.
Supervisor – Matjaz Kek
Kek, who was a relative journeyman throughout Slovenia and Austria in his taking part in profession, is one other coach to have loved a long-winding journey to this summer time’s event.
Stints in his homeland, Saudi Arabia and Croatia have been sandwiched by two spells as Slovenia boss, with Kek serving to his nation attain the 2010 World Cup in his unique tenure.
General, Kek- who returned to the position in 2018 – has gained 46 of his 102 video games in cost and will hope to guide his nation to extra upsets at Euro 2024.
Hazard Ranking – 1.5/5
Slovenia will likely be at their first Euros since 2000 after a massively spectacular qualifying marketing campaign The performances of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko (above) and Jan Oblak will likely be cruical
Denmark
Denmark have been one of the vital disappointing sides on the 2022 World Cup after they completed backside of their group, which got here off the again of an emotionally-fuelled experience to the Euro 2020 semi-finals.
Kasper Hjulmand – who saved his job regardless of the dire event in Qatar – oversaw a gradual, if unspectacular qualifying marketing campaign, with Denmark solely ousting Slovenia on the high of their group by advantage of the head-to-head report.
One to observe – Rasmus Hojlund
Current months have proven simply why Man United spent £70m on a comparatively unproven 20-year-old striker.
Rasmus Hojlund, now 21, has loved a superb begin to his worldwide profession, netting seven occasions in eight qualifiers and his targets will likely be essential if Hjulmand’s aspect are to proper the wrongs of that World Cup catastrophe.
Supervisor – Kasper Hjulmand
After stints at Danish sides Lyngby, Nordsjaelland and German aspect Mainz – the place Hjulmand changed Thomas Tuchel – the 51-year-old took over Denmark after a second spell at Nordsjaelland.
His report within the Denmark position, the place he has gained 31 of 49 video games, factors to the truth that Hjulmand has all of the instruments wanted to supervise a much-improved event efficiency.
Hazard Ranking – 3/5
A lot of Denmark’s hopes at Euro 2024 will depend on the type of Man United’s Rasmus Hojlund Kasper Hjulmand will likely be out to write down the wrongs of Denmark’s dismal 2022 World Cup show
Serbia
Regardless of a massively proficient squad on show, 2024 would be the first time Serbia have certified for the Euros because the nation break up from Montenegro in 2006.
Group stage exits at three of the previous 4 World Cups has carried out little to say their affect on the worldwide stage, however there stays some spectacular high quality within the squad together with Aleksandar Mitrovic, Filip Kostic and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
There’s room to enhance although, with Serbia’s qualifying marketing campaign seeing them win simply half of their video games and solely narrowly edge out Montenegro to automated qualification.
One to observe – Aleksandar Mitrovic
The previous Fulham favorite is already Serbia’s report goalscorer on the age of 29 and continues to be their talisman.
A £50m transfer to Al-Hilal following 14 Premier League targets final season hasn’t halted his type, with Mitrovic netting 31 occasions in 34 video games for the Saudi Professional League aspect.
Supervisor – Dragan Stojkovic
Dragan Stojkovic’s time within the dugout has taken him far-and-wide, with a six-year spell at Japanese aspect Nagoya Grampus adopted by 5 years with former Chinese language Tremendous League aspect Guangzhou R&F.
After taking on his dwelling nation in 2021, the previous Yugoslavia star has gained 21 of his 37 video games, and he will likely be determined to enhance on their disappointing World Cup once they picked up only one level.
Hazard Ranking – 2.5/5
In-form Al-Hilal striker Aleksandar Mitrovic will likely be essential to Serbia’s hopes in Germany Mitrovic is one in all a number of abilities inside Serbia’s workforce, however they’ve struggled at tournaments
England
This feels just like the time for Gareth Southgate’s England aspect – who have been runners-up at Euro 2020 – after one other fairly flawless qualification marketing campaign that noticed them stay unbeaten.
England’s squad is settled, having been collectively for a lot of years, whereas it’s sprinkled with stardust with the likes of Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka all within the working for one of the best gamers on the earth of their positions.
A defeat to Brazil and draw with Belgium has despatched a reminder that the Three Lions nonetheless have loads of work to do, however when Southgate’s prolonged damage checklist eases, issues will look so much higher.
One to observe – Jude Bellingham
It is harsh to disregard Kane, however Bellingham’s influence since transferring to Actual Madrid has been astonishing, with the Birmingham Metropolis youth product netting 20 targets in simply 31 video games.
His high quality, perspective and management has already seen him change into England’s talisman, evidenced by his last-gasp equaliser in opposition to Belgium and his shows in midfield will maintain the important thing to the Three Lions in Germany.
Supervisor – Gareth Southgate
Regardless of his tenure getting into an eighth 12 months, Southgate continues to be much-maligned amongst England followers for his perceived adverse ways.
However after 57 wins from 93 video games, you possibly can’t argue with Southgate’s report and forward of his contract expiring later this 12 months, it feels as if England’s efficiency at Euro 2024 will outline the 53-year-old’s time in cost.
Hazard Ranking – 5/5
England’s efficiency at Euro 2024 is about to outline Gareth Southgate’s tenure as supervisor
Group D
Netherlands
Netherlands have proven over the previous 12 months that they’re a power to be reckoned with on the massive stage, stuffed with expertise throughout the pitch.
Nevertheless, one factor holding them again is their report in opposition to the stronger nations with Ronald Koeman’s aspect dropping to France (twice), Italy, Croatia and Germany over the past 12 months, with that almost all current defeat to Julian Naglesmann’s aspect a reminder of their weaknesses.
They easily certified for Euro 2024 the place their solely two defeats got here in opposition to France, whereas they boast the likes of Nathan Ake and Virgil van Dijk in defence and Memphis Depay, Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons ought to convey the standard in assault.
One to observe – Xavi Simons
The highly-rated 20-year-old left PSG in the summertime of 2022, however such was his subsequent type at PSV the next marketing campaign, the French giants re-signed him.
Simons has gone onto shine for RB Leipzig on mortgage this season and over the previous 12 months, he has change into an everyday starter for the Dutch throughout the front-line and this summer time will likely be a significant alternative for him to make his mark on European soccer.
Supervisor – Ronald Koeman
Well-known to followers of the Premier League, former Southampton and Everton boss Koeman changed Louis van Gaal after his earlier two-year stint in cost ended when he moved to Barcelona.
Whereas Koeman has been criticised for tactical shortcomings, the 61-year-old maintains sufficient credit score within the financial institution, though the Dutchman has misplaced practically a 3rd of his 32 video games.
Hazard Ranking – 4/5
Netherlands might pose a hazard, however they’ve struggled in video games in opposition to larger nations RB Leipzig’s on-loan attacking midfielder Xavi Simons might be set for a breakout summer time
France
It is arduous to look previous Didier Deschamps’ aspect as something aside from overwhelming favourites for Euro 2024 given the immense expertise at their disposal.
An embarrassing exit from Euro 2020 within the last-16 to Switzerland has been sandwiched by a primary and second place end at two World Cups for Les Bleus.
A defeat to Germany and slender win in opposition to Chile over the previous week proves they’re human, however the depth of expertise all throughout the pitch, together with captain Kylian Mbappe, is a scary proposition for opposition aspect.
One to observe – Kylian Mbappe
Who else? 46 targets in 77 video games for Les Bleus has Mbappe nicely on the way in which to turning into France’s all-time report goalscorer on the age of 25.
By no means thoughts all of the hypothesis surrounding his future, Mbappe has netted 38 occasions in 37 video games this season and his pending departure from PSG means he’s more likely to be well-rested heading into Germany as Luis Enrique plans for the long run.
Supervisor – Didier Deschamps
Now into his twelfth 12 months within the position, Deschamps has 98 wins in 151 video games which demonstrates France’s place on the high of world soccer throughout his tenure.
Two runners-up and one winners medal from 5 main tournaments additionally exhibits Deschamps is aware of precisely what he is doing at worldwide degree.
Hazard Ranking – 5/5
Kylian Mbappe’s beautiful type means its arduous to look previous France in Germany this summer time Didier Deschamps will likely be heading into his sixth main event as supervisor of France
Poland
Poland ensured they reached Euro 2024 in probably the most dramatic of circumstances with a penalty shootout victory over Wales of their play-off last on Tuesday.
Nevertheless, hopes aren’t that prime for Robert Lewandowski and Co, whose continued underperformance at main tournaments is coupled with a massively disappointing qualifying marketing campaign.
Poland solely completed third of their group, 4 factors behind Czech Republic and Albania, whereas they narrowly edged out Moldova, ending one level forward of a rustic ranked one hundred and fifty fifth on the earth.
One to observe – Robert Lewandowski
Regardless of his struggles at membership degree, Lewandowski’s targets will likely be key if Poland are to get wherever in Germany this summer time.
With 81 targets in 147 caps, there is no such thing as a doubt the 35-year-old is a legend in his nation, however he’ll hope to enhance upon his report of seven targets in 18 event appearances.
Supervisor – Michal Probierz
One other coach with a nomadic existence earlier than worldwide administration, former Beneath 21 coach Michal Probierz changed former Portugal boss Fernando Santos after a dismal begin to Poland’s qualifying marketing campaign.
He deserves credit score for navigating his nation to Euro 2024, however lacks expertise outdoors Poland bar a two-month spell with Greek aspect Aris Thessaloniki in 2011.
Hazard Ranking – 1.5/5
Poland reached Euro 2024 in dramatic vogue after beating Wales on penalties within the play-off Robert Lewandowski will hope to raised his report of seven targets in 18 event appearances
Austria
After years of drift underneath a succession of managers, Austria have been utterly reworked since Ralf Rangnick took over in 2022.
The previous Man United boss has carried out an attacking fashion of play that has rejuvenated the nation’s relationship with its soccer workforce.
Coping with a number of gamers who’ve been a part of the Pink Bull system, which Rangnick helped to develop, Austria earned 19 factors from eight qualifying video games and virtually pipped Belgium to first place of their group.
One to observe – Christoph Baumgartner
Among the many proficient gamers coming by way of for Austria is RB Leipzig midfielder Christoph Baumgartner.
The 24-year-old has been in impressed type underneath Rangnick, and has 13 targets in 36 caps, which included worldwide soccer’s quickest ever purpose inside six seconds in opposition to Slovakia final Saturday.
Supervisor – Ralf Rangnick
Together with his status in England tarnished by a tough stint with Man United, Rangnick has reverted to his beliefs and carried out ‘vertical soccer’ at Austria.
The very fact so many proficient gamers are coming by way of is coupled with the truth that attendances at Austrian video games are hovering because the nation reconnects with it is nationwide aspect and that alone is testomony to the job the veteran German boss is doing.
Hazard Ranking – 3.5/5
Ralf Rangnick has rebuilt his and Austria’s status since taking on as supervisor in 2022 RB Leipzig midfielder Christoph Baumgartner scored the quickest worldwide purpose final week
Group E
Ukraine
Ukraine’s outstanding performances amid every thing that is happening of their nation means Serhiy Rebrov’s aspect will likely be most individuals’s second workforce come the summer time.
After cruelly lacking out to Italy in automated qualification by advantage of the Azzurri’s superior head-to-head report, Ukraine beat each Bosnia & Herzegovina and Iceland with late targets to ebook their place on the event.
Regardless of most of their stars persevering with to play outdoors of their homeland, Rebrov’s aspect is filled with high quality, with Valencia’s Roman Yaremchuk and Girona’s Artem Dovbyk complementing British-based gamers Vitaliy Mykolenko, Illya Zabarnyi, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Mykhailo Mudryk.
One to observe – Mykhailo Mudryk
The Chelsea star has begun to indicate a few of his undoubted high quality in current occasions for the Blues since his transfer from Shakhtar Donetsk for an preliminary £62million.
The winger, who now has six golf equipment targets this season, continues to be a talisman for his nation and scored the all-important winner in opposition to Iceland on Tuesday to ebook their spot at Euro 2024.
Supervisor – Serhiy Rebrov
Former Premier League striker Rebrov has had an inspirational influence since taking on final summer time.
Having virtually secured automated qualification, his report of six wins and only one defeat in 10 video games exhibits he’s constructing a formidable workforce.
Hazard Ranking – 3/5
Ukraine’s outstanding performances and achievements amid every thing that is happening of their nation means Serhiy Rebrov’s aspect will likely be most individuals’s second workforce come the summer time Mykhailo Mudryk’s late winner within the play-off last in opposition to Iceland was a reminder of his expertise
Slovakia
One other common at tournaments over current occasions with out leaving an excessive amount of of a mark, Slovakia will look to construct upon their spectacular qualifying marketing campaign that noticed them win seven of their 10 video games and lose simply twice to Portugal.
For a nation most-known soccer smart for Napoli icon Marek Hamsik, Francesco Calzona’s squad consists of loads of expertise and high quality equivalent to PSG’s Milan Skriniar, Napoli’s Stanislav Lobotka and Newcastle keeper Martin Dubravka.
One to observe – Milan Skriniar
Little doubt the most important identify in European soccer of Slovakia’s stars, the PSG defender has loved a strong debut season in Paris after six extremely profitable campaigns with Inter Milan.
As captain, Skriniar will lead from the entrance because the 29-year-old appears so as to add to his 66 caps.
Supervisor – Francesco Calzona
A supervisor with a incredible backstory, Calzona initially labored as a espresso supplier earlier than serving as Maurizio Sarri’s assistant because the Italian made his identify within the recreation.
Calzona was additionally a part of Spalletti’s employees at Napoli earlier than leaving to affix Slovakia in 2022.
However such has his influence been, coupled with Napoli’s disastrous marketing campaign, that he was summoned again to the membership in February to take over as interim supervisor, whereas persevering with his work with Slovakia within the course of.
Hazard Ranking: 2/5
Francesco Calzona’s (centre) influence at Slovakia noticed him return to Napoli as interim supervisor
Belgium
Whereas Belgium’s supposed Golden Technology didn’t stay as much as the hype, Tuesday’s 2-2 draw in opposition to England was a reminder of the expertise they’ve out there.
Domenico Tedesco’s aspect have a number of younger attacking stars equivalent to Jeremy Doku and Lois Openda, who’re complemented by the expertise and high quality of Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku.
Nevertheless, restricted choices on the again – which sees Jan Vertonghen nonetheless as his nation’s most dependable defender – plus Thibaut Courtois’ damage troubles, means Belgium’s defence might be their Achilles heel.
One to observe – Kevin De Bruyne
One of many biggest midfielders of his technology, De Bruyne, who was appointed as Belgium’s captain final 12 months, holds the keys to how nicely they get on in Germany.
Whereas Belgium have not fairly seen one of the best of the 32-year-old in current occasions, Euro 2024 would be the final event De Bruyne continues to be in peak situation for.
Supervisor – Domenico Tedesco
At solely two years older than Vertonghen, the previous Schalke, Spartak Moscow and RB Leipzig coach was an intriguing selection to switch Roberto Martinez.
Nonetheless unbeaten throughout 12 video games, Tedesco will hope to convey that type into Euro 2024 as he goals to earn an extension to a deal that expires this summer time.
Hazard Ranking – 4.5/5
Belgium’s 2-2 draw in opposition to England on Tuesday was a reminder of the expertise of their squad Man Metropolis star Kevin De Bruyne holds the keys to how nicely they get on in Germany this summer time
Romania
A nation not recognized for his or her appearances at main tournaments, Romania’s current progress is reward for a long-term plan from the nation’s FA.
A powerful crop of expertise famously shocked an England workforce that included the likes of James Maddison, Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomoroi on the Beneath 21 Euros in 2019, and a number of other of these stars have made their method by way of to the senior aspect.
Romania romped to qualification with 22 factors from their 10 video games, inserting them 5 factors away from a much-more skilled Switzerland aspect.
One to observe – George Puscas
Regardless of Romania’s spectacular qualification marketing campaign, the very fact they scored simply 16 targets throughout 10 video games exhibits it is best to anticipate their video games to be tight.
George Puscas – who EFL followers will bear in mind for his three seasons at Studying – will likely be key, with the Bari striker having netted 11 occasions in 41 caps, a report that’s solely bettered by veteran Nicolae Stanciu’s 14 in 67.
Supervisor – Edward Iordanescu
A former Romanian title winner with CFR Cluj, Edward Iordanescu continues to make his nation arduous to beat.
Iordanescu’s spectacular exploits all through qualifying noticed Romania in pot two for the draw, which ought to enhance their hopes of reaching the knockout levels of Euro 2024.
Hazard Ranking – 2/5
Romania’s spectacular qualification marketing campaign noticed them end 5 factors away from Switzerland
Group F
Portugal
One other robust favorite for the event, Portugal had gained each single recreation underneath Roberto Martinez earlier than their shock 2-0 defeat by Slovenia on Tuesday.
The previous Belgium and Everton boss has managed to completely harness Portugal’s plethora of attacking expertise, along with his aspect netting a outstanding 36 targets in simply 10 qualifying video games.
Like with France and England, it will likely be take one thing particular to cease the Portuguese juggernaut in Germany.
One to observe – Bernardo Silva
All over the place you look within the squad, there may be high quality and whereas Cristiano Ronaldo will little doubt really feel arduous carried out by given his prolific report, the expertise and poise of Bernardo Silva means holding him match and out there will likely be crucial to Martinez.
The 29-year-old is considerably of a veteran within the workforce with 88 caps, and the Man Metropolis man is the one who will be capable of knit collectively all of that attacking class.
Supervisor – Roberto Martinez
Properly-known for his exploits in England, Martinez has revitalised Portugal after an underwhelming World Cup exit to Morocco.
With six years beforehand managing Belgium, he’ll hope to make use of the expertise of three earlier main tournaments to Portugal’s profit.
Hazard Ranking – 5/5
Roberto Martinez has revitalised Portugal after an underwhelming World Cup exit to Morocco Bernardo Silva is the participant who will be capable of knit collectively all of Portugal’s attacking class
Czech Republic
A powerful qualifying marketing campaign noticed Czech Republic progress to their eighth successive Euros regardless of not all the time receiving the eye they maybe deserve.
One defeat of their previous 10 video games level to the truth that Ivan Hasek’s aspect aren’t a workforce to be sniffed at and they’ll hope to profit from a comparatively open group behind Portugal.
One to observe – Patrick Schick
Greatest recognized for that midway line purpose in opposition to Scotland at Euro 2020, Patrick Schick appears set to guide the road once more.
Schick, who has overcome damage issues in current months, was the highest scorer at that event and with 51 targets in 110 video games for Bayer Leverkusen and 18 in 37 for his nation, the striker is more likely to be essential if the Czech Republic are going to stamp their authority in Germany this summer time.
Supervisor – Ivan Hasek
An skilled 60-year-old, Hasek has managed all throughout the globe, along with his 25-year managerial profession taking him by way of Europe, Asia and Africa.
His earlier expertise of teaching Gabon, Lebanon and 5 video games accountable for the Czech Republic in 2009 ought to stand him in good stead after he was parachuted into the position in January when Jaroslav Silhavy resigned after securing qualification.
Hazard Ranking – 2.5/5
One defeat of their previous 10 video games level to the truth that Czech Republic are an honest outfit
Georgia
In what’s a merely beautiful achievement, Georgia will likely be at their first ever main event after navigating play-off victories in opposition to Luxembourg and Greece.
It’s the end result of a lot funding within the nationwide workforce that has seen them progress from the D league of the Nations League to the B league lately.
Georgia face a tall order to achieve the knockout levels in Germany, however their followers will simply be delighted to lastly be amongst Europe’s elite.
One to observe – Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
It is arduous to look wherever else than Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, with the 23-year-old – who has 15 targets in 29 caps – main a brand new technology of Georgian stars taking part in in revered leagues throughout Europe.
The ahead’s 4 targets in qualifying helped to make sure his nation could be in Germany and Kvaratskhelia’s high quality might create some memorable moments for Georgia.
Supervisor – Willy Sagnol
The previous France proper again deserves monumental credit score for revitalising his managerial profession after stints with France Beneath 21 and Bordeaux ended virtually eight years in the past.
Since taking over the Georgia job in 2021, he has gained 16 of his 33 video games in cost and the Bayern Munich favorite will perpetually be remembered within the Japanese European nation for taking them to their first ever Euros.
Hazard Ranking – 1/5
In what’s a merely beautiful achievement, Georgia will likely be at their first ever main event Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s immense high quality might create some memorable moments for Georgia
Turkey
Extensively tipped because the darkish horses of Euro 2020, that event resulted in catastrophe for Turkey who misplaced all three of their group video games.
Nonetheless, they are going to be stronger for the expertise and after edging out Croatia and Wales to high their qualifying group, Turkey will hope to avenge that disappointing marketing campaign this time round.
Nevertheless, after a shocking run of type that embody away victories over Croatia and Germany, Turkey have been introduced again right down to earth with successive defeats by Hungary and Austria in current days, with the Turks thumped 6-1 by Ralf Rangnick’s aspect.
One to observe – Hakan Calhanoglu
Captain Hakan Calhanoglu is a hero in Turkey and the 30-year-old, who was born in Germany however selected to play for the nation of his household’s origin, has been revitalised since transferring to Inter Milan from arch-rivals AC in 2021.
Having beforehand starred as an attacking midfielder, Calhanoglu now performs a lot deeper and with 84 caps, his expertise and high quality will likely be essential for Vincenzo Montella’s aspect.
Supervisor – Vincenzo Montella
The 49-year-old Italian has earned rave critiques for his work throughout the continent over the previous decade.
A powerful two-year stint with Turkish Tremendous Lig aspect Adana Demirspor was adopted by the chance to handle Turkey and earlier than a disappointing week, he had proven indicators of getting a big effect on the nationwide workforce.
Hazard Ranking – 3/5
Captain Hakan Calhanoglu’s expertise and high quality will likely be essential for Vincenzo Montella’s aspect
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