UEFA Euro 2024 is set to light up the soccer world this summer. While established stars like Kylian Mbappe will undoubtedly grab the headlines, the tournament also provides a platform for talented players who go under the radar to showcase their skills. Here, we explore five young players who can make a significant impact on Euro 2024:
Wilfried Gnonto (Italy, Leeds United)
At the age of 20, Gnonto is an important player in Leeds United’s set-up. As of early April 2024, The Italy-born winger has scored 7 goals and assisted two goals in 30 Championship appearances.
He possesses blistering pace and exceptional dribbling skills. The winger loves taking on defenders and is a constant threat down the flanks. Gnonto can play on either wing, offering coaches tactical flexibility.
With Italy known for its strong defensive organization, Gnonto’s attacking flair could be a valuable weapon. He will provide an outlet for quick transitions and unlocking defenses with his direct approach. Italy’s Euro defense might turn out to be unsuccessful but Gnonto will succeed in making his name known to a wider audience.
Arda Guler (Turkey, Real Madrid)
Arda Guler joined Real Madrid amidst much fanfare. He was dubbed as the next big thing. However, his Los Blancos stay has been underwhelming. As of early April 2024, the 19-year-old midfielder has scored just one goal in five appearances in the La Liga this season. There are calls from fans to loan him out and give him more game time. Meanwhile, many rumors have emerged that he might make a move back to Turkey.
In a moment of such uncertainty, Guler would love to prove his worth to his country. Turkey will face Georgia, the Czech Republic, and Portugal in the group stages of Euro 2024, Guler could play a critical role in Turkey’s potential deep run-in.
Kristjan Asllani (Albania, Inter Milan)
While Inter Milan is a Serie A giant and is poised to win the league this season, Asllani still qualifies as an under-the-radar player at the club level. This 22-year-old defensive midfielder is a vital cog in Albania’s national team.
Asllani is a tough tackler with a knack for reading the game. He offers a calming presence in midfield. He excels at breaking up play and initiating attacks with his intelligent passing. With Albania aiming to cause upsets at Euro 2024, Asllani’s leadership and ability to control the tempo of the game will be crucial. He was instrumental in Albania’s qualification process and will be as important during UEFA Euro 2024.
Illia Zabarnyi (Ukraine, Bournemouth)
21-year-old Illia Zabarnyi is a composed center-back who possesses excellent positional sense and reads the game well. Zabarnyi is calm on the ball and comfortable stepping out of defense to initiate attacks.
Zabarnyi, who is a Ukrainian champion and cup winner with Dynamo Kyiv has been a crucial player for Bournemouth in the Premier League. As of early April 2024, he has started and completed all 30 of their games. The defender has also scored one goal in the process. Bournemouth is set for a mid-table finish in the league.
Ooooooh I wanna dance with Zabarnyi 🎶 pic.twitter.com/40c4ZyBSi9
— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) April 5, 2024
With Ukraine needing a resolute defense at Euro 2024, Zabarnyi’s maturity and defensive awareness will be key in keeping opponents at bay.
Benjamin Sesko (Slovenia, Red Bull Leipzig)
20-year-old Benjamin Sesko has been making waves in the Bundesliga as the Slovenian striker has notched up over 10 goals in all competitions this season. This towering striker is a physical force to be reckoned with. He possesses exceptional aerial ability and a powerful shot on goal. Sesko’s link-up play is intelligent, and he can hold the ball up well to bring teammates into the game.
Slovenia will be relying on Sesko’s goalscoring prowess to challenge for a place in the knockout stages at Euro 2024.
These five young players are just a glimpse into the exciting talent pool that will be displayed at Euro 2024. Their hunger, skill, and potential to surprise make them some of the most intriguing players to watch.