Euro 2024 Knockout Stages: Top 10 Young Stars to Watch
The group stages of Euro 2024 are now in the history books, with 16 of the 24 qualifying teams set to tackle the Euro 2024 Knockout Stages. Spain has been in complete cruise control, Germany has been impressive, and the less said about England, France, and Portugal to an extent, the better.
The real highlight of the tournament so far has been the standout performances of the wonderkids. Many have become genuine match-winners for their countries, ranging from a tricky 16-year-old winger with the world at his feet to a 21-year-old goalkeeper tasked with stopping anything in sight.
As part of 90min’s 24 for 24 series, here’s a look at the ten best players aged 21 and under from the group stages – ranked:
1. Francisco Conceicao (Portugal, Age 21)
Due to the wealth of talent at Roberto Martinez’s disposal in the offensive third, not too many Portugal fans were expecting Francisco Conceicao to get much game time this summer. However, the 21-year-old popped up with a late winner against Czechia and secured more minutes, starting the game against Georgia.
2. Bart Verbruggen (Netherlands, Age 21)
The youngest starting goalkeeper at Euro 2024 certainly hasn’t looked out of place for the Netherlands. Verbruggen was particularly impressive on matchday two, earning a clean sheet in a 0-0 draw with France thanks to three crucial saves.
3. Kenan Yildiz (Turkey, Age 19)
The fact that Turkey looked utterly hopeless in the one game Kenan Yildiz didn’t start tells you all you need to know. The Juventus youngster has been the creative spark in Turkey’s frontline in both their wins at Euro 2024 thus far.
4. Xavi Simons (Netherlands, Age 21)
In and out of the starting XI, Xavi Simons has made an impact when he has played for the Netherlands. The creative wide player has one assist and should have had a game-winning goal against France, which was controversially ruled out by VAR.
5. Florian Wirtz (Germany, Age 21)
One half of Germany’s wonderkid attacking duo, Florian Wirtz, has played very well, despite not shining as brightly as Jamal Musiala yet. His goal in the win over Scotland was stunning, and he has consistently caused problems for defenses in games against Hungary and Switzerland.
6. Pedri (Spain, Age 21)
When fit, there are very few better midfielders in Europe than Pedri. Right now, Pedri is fit and performing like one of the best midfielders in Europe, showcasing his talent alongside Fabian Ruiz and Rodri for Spain.
7. Lamine Yamal (Spain, Age 16)
Lamine Yamal, at just 16 years old, has been one of the best players at Euro 2024 thus far. His performances have been nothing short of spectacular, making him a player no full-back will look forward to facing in the knockout rounds.
8. Arda Guler (Turkey, Age 19)
Arda Guler may have already wrapped up the goal of the tournament award thanks to his stunning strike in a win over Georgia. The Real Madrid starlet has been Turkey’s standout performer thus far.
9. Nico Williams (Spain, Age 21)
Giovanni Di Lorenzo will likely have quite severe PTSD after going toe-to-toe with Nico Williams for 90 minutes. Williams was brilliant in the win over Italy, with his pace, trickery, and delivery causing numerous problems, making him one of the most exciting players to watch at Euro 2024.
10. Jamal Musiala (Germany, Age 21)
The best young player and arguably the best overall player at Euro 2024 thus far, Jamal Musiala has been sublime for Germany. His two goals and overall performance levels have been superb, showcasing his development into a genuinely world-class footballer.
In summary, these young stars have been the highlight of Euro 2024, demonstrating exceptional talent and becoming crucial players for their respective teams.