As the Euro 2024 group phase concluded on Wednesday, and the remaining 16 teams prepared for the knockout stages, the tournament has thus far served as a significant stage for the rising stars of football. These youthful talents have seized the opportunity to display their skills in front of a continent of spectators. Mid-Day takes an in-depth look at five players aged 21 and under who have particularly stood out during the Euro 2024 group stage.
Nico Williams (Spain)
Spain’s authoritative performances during the group stages have vaulted the three-time champions to favourites for this year’s title, and no player has personified their dominance more than 21-year-old Nico Williams. Preparing to celebrate his 22nd birthday on July 12, a mere two days before the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, Williams has demonstrated his worth at an international level. The winger, fresh off leading Athletic Bilbao to their first Copa del Rey trophy in 40 years, was a perennially menacing force in attack. Particularly memorable was his player-of-the-match performance in Spain’s crucial 1-0 win over Italy. His elation reached a zenith when he was personally congratulated by the Spanish King after the match. “I’ve dreamed of moments like this my entire childhood,” Williams shared with the media, encapsulating the pride and joy of his nation.
Jamal Musiala (Germany)
Germany’s attack has been spearheaded by 21-year-old Jamal Musiala, who has emerged as the host nation’s most formidable offensive player in Euro 2024. Musiala found the back of the net in each of Germany’s initial games, helping them finish at the top of Group A. Although he was the lone beacon of hope during Germany’s disappointing exit in the 2022 World Cup, Musiala has now evolved into a complete footballer, augmenting his creative playmaking with crucial goal-scoring. Despite an inconsistent season with Bayern Munich, Musiala has formed an effective partnership with fellow 21-year-old Florian Wirtz, who shares a similar role for his club. His standout performance came during Germany’s 5-1 thrashing of Scotland in the tournament opener, a match for which he received the man-of-the-match accolade. When questioned if it was his best performance to date, Musiala, the Germany-born, England-raised midfielder, confidently replied, “You could say that, yes,” signaling a stern warning to the competitors.
Jude Bellingham (England)
At just 20 years old, Jude Bellingham has rapidly ascended to become a pivotal figure for England.
. Bolstering his reputation from the 2022 World Cup, Bellingham has played a vital role in securing England’s solitary victory so far, scoring the decisive goal. His journey into Euro 2024 began on a high note, having clinched both the La Liga and Champions League titles with Real Madrid. Bellingham is expected to be central to England’s aspirations, partnering alongside key players like Harry Kane and Phil Foden. As England looks to overturn more than 50 years of futility in major tournaments, Bellingham’s performances will be closely scrutinized.
Arda Guler (Turkey)
Nineteen-year-old Arda Guler has seamlessly translated his domestic form onto the international stage at Euro 2024. Finishing the La Liga season with a flourish, scoring five goals in his final five matches for Real Madrid, Guler continued his rich vein of form in Turkey’s group-stage encounters. His stunning long-range strike in the 1-1 draw with Georgia is already being touted as a contender for the goal of the tournament. At 19 years and 114 days, Guler broke Cristiano Ronaldo’s record to become the youngest player to score on their Euros debut, a milestone made even more poignant considering Ronaldo, now 39, is likely making his final Euros appearance. This passing of the torch appears fitting, as Guler represents the new generation of footballing prodigies.
Lamine Yamal (Spain)
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal has etched his name in the annals of European Championship history by becoming the youngest player to participate in the tournament at 16 years and 338 days. In Spain’s dominant 3-0 victory over Croatia, Yamal not only made his debut but also became the youngest player to register an assist at the Euros. His impressive showing continued against Italy before he was rested against Albania, as Spain secured three consecutive group-stage victories. Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, has been cautious with the teenager’s minutes to ease the pressure on the young sensation described as being “touched by God’s magic wand.”
In conclusion, these young stars have not only showcased their immense talent and potential but have also made significant contributions to their respective national teams during the group stages of Euro 2024. As the tournament progresses into the knockout stages, all eyes will be on these rising phenoms to see if they can continue to dazzle and leave an indelible mark on this prestigious competition.
