Top Contenders for Winning Euro 2024 

With the 2023 FIFA World Cup in full swing, attention is already turning to the next major international football tournament, Euro 2024, which will be hosted by Germany from June 14th to July 14th, 2024. Here are the top contenders based on their current form, squad depth, and recent performances: 

France

One team that immediately stands out as a top contender for Euro 2024 is France. Les Bleus are the reigning World Champions, having triumphed in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Led by an array of world-class talent such as Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, N’Golo Kante, and Paul Pogba, France boasts a formidable squad capable of competing at the highest level. Coached by Didier Deschamps, who himself won the Euros as a player in 2000, France combines defensive solidity with attacking flair, making them a well-rounded and dangerous outfit.

France’s recent track record in major tournaments further cements their status as favorites for Euro 2024. In addition to their World Cup success in 2018, they were runners-up in Euro 2016, losing to Portugal in the final. The experience gained from these deep tournament runs will serve France well as they aim to add another European Championship to their trophy cabinet.

Germany

As the host nation for Euro 2024, Germany automatically qualifies for the tournament and will have home advantage throughout the competition. Die Mannschaft has a rich history in international football, with four FIFA World Cup titles and three European Championship victories to their name. Although they endured a disappointing group stage exit in Euro 2020, Germany remains a force to be reckoned with on the continental stage.

Under the guidance of head coach Hansi Flick, who enjoyed immense success at Bayern Munich before taking charge of the national team, Germany has undergone a rejuvenation process aimed at blending youth and experience. The likes of Joshua Kimmich, Kai Havertz, and Serge Gnabry represent the next generation of German talent, while stalwarts like Manuel Neuer and Thomas Muller provide leadership and know-how. 

Spain 

Spain is another perennial contender when it comes to major international tournaments. La Roja won back-to-back European Championships in 2008 and 2012 sandwiched around their triumph at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. While they have experienced a slight dip in form since their golden era under Vicente del Bosque, Spain still possesses a wealth of talented players capable of challenging for Euro 2024 glory. 

Led by Luis Enrique, Spain plays an attractive brand of possession-based football that can suffocate opponents and create scoring opportunities through intricate passing sequences. Players such as Sergio Busquets, Koke, Ferran Torres, and Pedri embody Spain’s commitment to technical excellence and tactical intelligence on the pitch. 

Italy

The current holders of the UEFA European Championship title are Italy following their triumph at Euro 2020. The Azzurri surprised many with their impressive run under manager Roberto Mancini, culminating in victory over England in a dramatic penalty shootout in the final at Wembley Stadium. Italy’s success was built on a solid defense marshaled by veteran center-backs Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci combined with dynamic attacking play from midfielders like Jorginho and Nicolo Barella. 

While defending their title at Euro 2024 will be no easy feat given the competitive nature of international football, Italy has shown that they have what it takes to compete with Europe’s best teams on any given day. 

England: 

Under the guidance of Gareth Southgate, England have transformed into a formidable force. They reached the final of Euro 2020 and the semi-final of the 2022 World Cup, and their squad is now bursting with quality. Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka are just a few of their standout players.

Portugal:

Portugal's fortunes have been closely tied to the brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo, but they have a number of other talented players in their squad. Joao Felix, Bernardo Silva, and Ruben Dias are all world-class performers.

Netherlands

The Netherlands have re-emerged as a major force in international football under Louis van Gaal. They have a balanced squad with experienced players like Virgil van Dijk and Frenkie de Jong, as well as exciting young talents like Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons.

Belgium

Belgium's 'Golden Generation' is now approaching the end of its cycle, but they remain a formidable team. Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard, and Romelu Lukaku are still capable of producing moments of magic.

Croatia

Croatia surprised many by reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup. They have a solid team with experienced players like Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic, as well as rising stars like Josko Gvardiol and Dominik Livakovic.

 Denmark

Denmark have been consistently impressive in recent years. They reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020 and qualified comfortably for the 2022 World Cup. Their squad is led by some of Europe's most in-form players, including Christian Eriksen, Kasper Dolberg, and Joachim Andersen. 

Summary

 (Germany) stands out as one of the top contenders for winning Euro 2024, boasting a potent mix of talent and experience along with home advantage that could prove decisive in their quest for European glory.

As we eagerly anticipate Euro 2024 kicking off next summer (France) looks set to be one of the top contenders, backed by their recent successes on both domestic soil during EURO ‘16 & global stage during WC ‘18; however (Spain) cannot be discounted either due to its rich history & tactical prowess while (Italy) will look to defend its title with determination & skillful playmaking abilities showcased during EURO ‘20.

With so much talent on display across Europe’s elite nations Euro 2024 promises to be an enthralling spectacle where only one team can emerge victorious - but until then let us enjoy watching these powerhouses battle it out on football’s grandest stage!