The aftertaste of the Euros 2024 is finally gone. Now we can objectively evaluate which players really shone in their position either helping their nation or only to be let down by their teammates. Picking the 2024 Euros Best Eleven is not as straightforward as it seems, we have one nation dominating the midfield, no natural number nine, and a blend of styles. It was hard to leave out some names so here is a nod to Nico Williams, Kyle Walker, Arda Guler, and more. Here is the best 11 of Euros 2024.
GK: Giorgi Mamardashvili (Georgia)
Giorgi Mamardashvili stood out as the busiest goalkeeper of Euros 2024, facing more shots on target than any other keeper, despite Georgia’s exit in the last 16. His spirited performances made a significant impact. Valued at £35 million and a target for Newcastle, Mamardashvili has drawn considerable attention.
The Valencia shot-stopper’s display against Turkey was commendable, and he was instrumental in securing a crucial point against Czechia, Georgia’s first at a major tournament. This point, combined with a heroic victory over Portugal, proved invaluable to secure a knockout stage spot.
Though the onslaught from Spain was overwhelming, Mamardashvili couldn’t be blamed for the four goals conceded. The 23-year-old’s talent shone through with numerous remarkable saves, propelling Georgia to the knockout stages against all odds.
Georgia’s surprise run at Euro 2024 highlighted Mamardashvili’s brilliance. His 11 saves against Czechia and a clean sheet against Portugal, albeit a weakened team, showcased his prowess. His performances likely caught the eye of major clubs, suggesting a potential move in the summer transfer window. With a total of 29 saves across four matches, Mamardashvili was pivotal in Georgia’s memorable campaign.
LB: Marc Cucurella (Spain)
At the Euros 2024, Marc Cucurella 2024 has been at the peak of his form since joining Chelsea. His performances throughout the tournament have been exceptional, making him a standout player in Spain’s squad. Only Rodri has logged more minutes than Cucurella, underscoring his importance to the team.
Cucurella’s brilliance shone in crucial matches, particularly against Italy, and was instrumental in knockout victories over Germany and France. His energy and tactical acumen from the left-back position were vital for Spain. The 25-year-old not only solidified Spain’s defense but also contributed offensively, including a crucial assist for Oyarzabal’s winner in the final.
Despite not being fully embraced at Chelsea since his high-profile transfer from Brighton & Hove Albion, Cucurella’s performances for Spain have been sensational. His utilization of football’s “dark arts” effectively disrupted opponents’ momentum, showcasing his strategic intelligence. This tournament has been a testament to Cucurella’s talent, and it may finally earn him the recognition he deserves at the club level.
CB: Pepe (Portugal)
Pepe, at 41, continues to thrive as the backbone of Portugal’s defense. Despite questions about Ronaldo’s fit in this young team, Pepe’s presence has been universally praised. His experience and quality have overshadowed concerns about his age.
In the Euros 2024, Pepe demonstrated his enduring class. Despite Portugal’s defeat to Georgia, where he was rested, his return against Slovenia was imperious, save for a minor slip that Benjamin Sesko failed to capitalize on. Pepe’s performance against France was particularly noteworthy, showcasing his dominance and resilience.
Throughout the tournament, Pepe was a constant presence in Portugal’s backline, playing nearly every minute. His ability to marshal the defense with ease, despite being almost twice the age of some of his teammates, was remarkable. He averaged over 100 passes per game with a 94% success rate and made 2.3 tackles per game, proving his timeless quality on the international stage.
Jaka Bijol (Slovenia)
Jaka Bijol emerged as a defensive powerhouse at Euro 2024, making an impressive 38 clearances for a Slovenian side that conceded just two goals throughout the tournament. His performance was crucial in Slovenia’s unbeaten run, which ended only in a penalty shootout loss to Portugal.
Bijol’s list of silenced strikers reads like a who’s who of European football: Rasmus Hojlund, Aleksandar Mitrovic, Dusan Vlahovic, Harry Kane, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Handling these attacking threats with ease, Bijol proved his mettle, especially impressive considering his recent experience in a Serie A relegation battle with Udinese.
Apart from a single slip against England that resulted in a yellow card, Bijol was impeccable. His “thou shalt not pass” mentality made him a key figure in Slovenia’s stingy defense, even reducing Ronaldo to frustration. The 25-year-old Udinese defender was a revelation, helping Slovenia shut out both England and Portugal. His performances are sure to attract attention from top clubs, with his agent likely fielding calls soon.
RB: Jules Kounde (France)
Jules Kounde shone at right-back for France, even though he prefers playing center-back. The Barcelona star was a rock in defense, standing out in an otherwise disappointing tournament for Les Bleus. His performance against Spain’s Nico Williams in the semifinal showcased his defensive prowess.
Kounde’s pace, aggression, and ball-handling skills made him a vital part of France’s defense. He was a defender who truly wanted to defend, consistently outmaneuvering his opponents. Despite France’s struggles, Kounde was a beacon of reliability, never letting anyone get past him.
Remarkably, Kounde created 11 chances throughout the tournament, second only to Ousmane Dembele in the French squad. His defensive solidity and ability to progress the ball were crucial for France. Kounde’s performances at Euro 2024 confirmed his status as one of the top defenders in the competition.
CM: Rodri (Spain)
Rodri has firmly established himself as Spain’s new Sergio Busquets, playing a crucial role in La Roja’s impressive form. He has gone over 400 days unbeaten when playing for the national team. As the best midfield anchor in the world for his club, Manchester City, Rodri’s impact at Euro 2024 has been immense.
Despite being forced out of the final at halftime, Rodri was deservedly named player of the tournament. Ballon d’Or discussions are now centered around Spain’s midfield talisman, who is undoubtedly the best in his position globally. When Spain was trailing against Georgia, Rodri delivered one of his signature crucial goals. His semifinal performance against France was a masterclass, dictating Spain’s confident and stylish play.
Rodri provides the foundation for Spain, making vital tackles and interceptions, recycling possession, and orchestrating the team’s movements. His 93% passing success rate highlights his precision and reliability. The collective gasp from Spanish fans upon his injury-enforced removal in the final further highlights his importance to the team.
CM – Fabian Ruiz (Spain)
Fabian Ruiz has hit peak form at Euro 2024, delivering stellar performances for Spain. With two goals and two assists, his creative prowess has been instrumental in Spain’s tally of 13 goals so far.
After Pedri’s injury, Ruiz adapted to a deeper role while still driving Spain’s attack. He completed 39 passes into the final third and had 15 attempts. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente praised him, saying, “If his name wasn’t Fabian, you would be talking about him non-stop.” Ruiz’s sublime footwork was on full display in the 3-0 victory over Croatia, where he scored a fine goal.
Ruiz’s calm control was evident against Italy, showcasing a near-perfect midfield performance. He continued to impress against Germany and France. Alongside Rodri, Ruiz flourished, weaving intricate patterns in the final third. Known for his technical brilliance, Ruiz’s contributions have been pivotal in Spain’s journey to the title.
With a remarkable 422 passes completed at a 90.2% success rate, Ruiz’s impact is undeniable. His performances at this European Championship have solidified his reputation as a key player for Spain, hinting at his potential to become a global star.
CAM – Dani Olmo (Spain)
Dani Olmo has been a revelation at Euro 2024, dazzling fans and critics alike with his performances. Despite starting the tournament off the bench, he quickly became integral to Spain’s success, showcasing his skill in the number 10 role.
Olmo’s knack for finding space and making things happen on the field was evident. He scored three goals, including a stunning strike against France, and provided two assists, making him the joint-top scorer of the tournament. His six attempts on target and seven passes into the penalty area made him the most effective attacking midfielder in the tournament.
His defensive contributions were equally impressive. In the final, Olmo made a dramatic goal-line clearance to maintain Spain’s 2-1 lead, celebrating it as passionately as any of his goals. This moment highlighted his all-around ability and commitment to the team’s cause.
Olmo’s journey in the tournament saw him rise from a substitute to a star. He played just 153 minutes in the first four games but made a significant impact with his crucial goals against Germany and France in the knockout stages. His assist for the late winner against Germany further cemented his importance to the team.
Exploiting the space created by his wingers, Olmo’s creativity and precision made him a standout player. His performance in the final third, combined with his defensive efforts, proved that he is more than just an attacking threat.
LW- Jamal Musiala (Germany)
Germany started Euro 2024 with high hopes, and much of the early praise went to 21-year-old Jamal Musiala. His technical ability and creative prowess make him one of the most exciting young talents in modern football.
Musiala scored three goals in five matches, making him the joint-leading goal scorer despite Germany’s early exit in the quarterfinals. His dribbling skills mesmerized fans and provided Germany with crucial attacking options.
The entire nation dreamed of a fairytale victory on home soil, and for a time, it seemed within reach, thanks largely to Musiala. His performances throughout the tournament showcased his immense talent and solidified his status as a key player for Germany.
RW – Lamine Yamal (Spain)
Lamine Yamal, the biggest teenage sensation in football, dazzled at Euro 2024. At just 17, the Barcelona and Spain winger played a significant role in his team’s journey to the final.
Yamal led the tournament with three assists and scored a crucial equalizer against France in the semi-final. His right-wing dribbling and finishing skills gave Spain an unexpected advantage. Across six games, he made 16 attempts, completed 30 dribbles, and delivered 14 passes into the box.
This young star captivated the football world while balancing the demands of schoolwork. His stunning goal against France was a moment to cherish. Just turning 17 on the eve of the final, Yamal was instrumental in Spain’s success, assisting in the opening goal. He is a talent who could dominate the sport for decades.
Coming into the tournament, fans were eager to see Yamal’s abilities. Few expected him to be so integral to Spain’s game plan. With four assists and a sensational goal against France, he proved himself the most talented football teenager. Yamal’s ability to beat defenders, play through balls, deliver precise crosses, and maintain relentless energy marks him as a future star.
CF – Cody Gakpo (Netherlands)
Cody Gakpo’s outstanding performances were a key factor in the Netherlands’ journey to the semifinals of Euro 2024. Scoring three goals and providing an assist, Gakpo showcased his agility and finishing prowess, ensuring a respectable finish for his team. He is the third top scorer at the tournament on our squad.
Gakpo made eight attempts on target and delivered 11 passes into the box. While primarily playing on the left flank for the Netherlands, his versatility to play centrally, as seen at Liverpool, earned him a spot in this team.
Using the 2022 World Cup as a springboard to secure a move to Liverpool, Gakpo continued his impressive international form. His deflected goal and tenacious display against Poland highlighted his attacking threat. Gakpo seamlessly stepped up against France, contributing to a solid team performance despite seeing less of the ball.
He further demonstrated his quality by scoring in the defeat to Austria and the win over Romania. Additionally, Gakpo played a crucial role in forcing Mert Muldur’s own goal in the quarterfinal against Turkey. His consistent impact throughout the tournament underlined his importance to the Dutch side.
So there is the team, and it is a jolly good one full of pace, steel, skills, and goals. there is creativity all through and more importantly, we believe it reflects the form and contributions of the players across the tournament. Who do you think will win between this Euros best 11 against the Copa America Best 11?