The dust has settled on the all-time 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Football enthusiasts worldwide have started focusing on the next major national football event – the Euro 2024. The stakes are high, with many countries eager to redeem themselves and struggle for victory.
As the countdown to the championship continues, football fans can't wait for the ferocious competition and action-packed performances that are sure to come. So, as you get ready for the upcoming adventures and history-making tournament, here are the top contenders you should look out for and why. While waiting, you can try out a royal reels slot to try your luck and potentially receive the payout.
France
France has proven over and over again to be one of the greatest teams of all time, making deep runs in major global football championships. It is poised to make a stronger comeback in the upcoming Euro 2024. Despite the retirement of significant players such as Raphael Varane, Hugo Lloris, and Karim Benzema after their final World Cup defeat to Argentina, the French national team has continued to threaten their opponents. Didier Deschamps, who has recently committed to managing French Football for the next 3 1⁄2 years, has led the team to success, winning all five qualifying matches. Their runner-up position in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar is still fresh. We didn't see that as a weakness, as any team that underrated France does so at their peril. In football, the future is predicted by the past, and with the strong history the Blues have set, they are a must-watch.
England
The story of England in international tournaments has always been the same – always a bridesmaid, never a bride. Despite coming very close in Euro 2020, with most of their matches played at home, they weren't so lucky to make it to the finish line. The Harry Kane penalty miss sealed their fate against France in Qatar. However, their manager Gareth has revitalised the team, turning them into strong contenders. Young but vibrant talents like Bellingham, Elliots, and Foden have emerged, and the team's performance has improved considerably.
But there are still some concerns. For example, the team needs elite centre-backs, and the balance between international commitments and the football club needs to be struck. The competition for the upcoming Euro 2024 is tough, and England would need to be at their very best to progress. The presence of Ukraine and Italy makes the test even more dirty, but if England can overcome these challenges, their confidence will finally be boosted, and maybe the Three Lions can win Euro 2024.
Spain
Spain's football team significantly altered its management by appointing Luis de la Fuente as the new coach. The former coach, Luis Enrique, was displaced following a defeat against Morocco at the 2022 World Cup. During Luis Enriques's tenure, critiques centred on the team's style, which was considered too pass-focused and not too aggressive in their attacks. As such, many expect De La Fuente to bring a more fierce approach to their style of play, which could make enthusiasts believe in them once again. Their recent 7-1 win against Georgia has shown us how much their attack style has improved. With a relatively easy qualification group, Spain should be able to dominate Scotland and Norway. With talents like Gavi and Pedri, Spain has all the chances to become a winning team at the Euro 2024.
Italy
Since the coming of Luciano Spalleti as their new coach, Italy's team has undergone a substantial change in the style of their game. The question many football enthusiasts have in mind is whether the difference is significant enough to make them go home with the Euro 2024 Cup. The Azzurri has been facing ups and downs recently, with missed World Cup Qualifications and a win in the Euros to make up for. Despite taking two of the Champions League's last four teams, the Italy team has struggled with a lack of attacking options. Their former coach, Roberto Mancini, even commented that England had better attacking talent. The retirement of Mancini came as a shock, but hope was revived when Spalletti was appointed as the new coach.
Belgium
The Red Devils were sharp to appoint a new coach to prevent another tragic loss like the one they encountered during the World Cup. Since being appointed manager, Domenico Tedesco has made notable changes to the team. Those left out include Dries Merten, Axel Witsel, and Eden Hazard, who have a combined 365 international caps. Even Simon Mignolet and Toby Alderweireld have also resigned from international duty. The new manager's top priority was rebuilding harmony with the team after their in-fight during the World Cup. Many believe in Tedesco and are watching out to see how the Red Devils will perform.
Portugal
Portugal is included as well. They've appointed Roberto Martinez as their new manager, and he's got a solid squad to work with. With Cristiano Ronaldo and the likes of Bruno Fernandes and João Felix, the team is undoubtedly stuffed with talents. Despite joining the Saudi League recently, Ronaldo has proved patriotism and has promised to be with the national team for Euro 2024.
Martinez has a lot of work, from evolving the team to introducing younger players. There are challenges quite alright, but Portugal still stands a chance of making a good game by the 2024 summer.
However, Martinez has a tricky balancing act, as he needs to evolve the team and introduce younger talent. It's a challenge, but Portugal has a kind-looking qualifying campaign. With Martinez at the helm, Portugal could be a force to be reckoned with by the summer of 2024. Other favourites include:
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Netherlands
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Croatia
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Germany
Conclusion
The Euro 2024 pledged to be a fierce tournament that every football lover wouldn't want to miss. With top contenders like France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, and England and other minor contenders like Croatia and Netherlands teams, the competition will surely be enthralling and full of adventure. Pencil out your calendars and get ready for some history-making football tournament. May the best team win.
