Who Will Win Euro 2024? A Preview of the Top Contenders

The countdown to UEFA Euro 2024 is heating up, and football fans worldwide are buzzing with one question: Who will lift the Henri Delaunay Trophy this summer? Hosted by Germany for the first time since 1988, the tournament promises a thrilling blend of established giants, dark horses, and generational talents. As the final squads take shape, let’s break down the top contenders vying for continental glory.

France: The Mbappé-Fuelled Machine

Les Bleus enter as one of the outright favorites, and for good reason. Head coach Didier Deschamps has assembled a squad that blends world-class experience with youthful exuberance. At the heart of their attack is Kylian Mbappé, the 2022 World Cup Golden Boot winner, whose pace, dribbling, and clutch finishing make him nearly unplayable. Alongside him, Antoine Griezmann pulls the strings in midfield, while Olivier Giroud provides a physical presence up front. Defensively, Raphael Varane and Dayot Upamecano form a rock-solid center-back pairing, with Mike Maignan in goal adding shot-stopping authority. France’s only question mark? Depth in midfield—if injuries strike, their rotation options could be tested. But with Mbappé in form, they have the firepower to outscore any team.

England: The Golden Generation’s Last Chance?

England boasts arguably the most talented squad in the tournament, led by captain Harry Kane, the all-time leading scorer for the national team. Kane’s partnership with Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Jadon Sancho in attack gives England relentless pace and creativity. In midfield, Declan Rice provides defensive stability, while Jude Bellingham’s box-to-box energy and playmaking ability make him one of the best young players in the world. Under Gareth Southgate, England has reached the semifinals in two of the last three major tournaments, but they’ve fallen short in the final stages. Can they finally break their “penalty curse” and deliver a first major title since 1966? With their attacking firepower and defensive solidity (John Stones and Luke Shaw are in top form), England’s time may be now.

Germany: Host Nation Momentum

As hosts, Germany carries the weight of expectant fans, but Julian Nagelsmann’s side is no underdog. Die Mannschaft has a perfect blend of seasoned pros and rising stars: Manuel Neuer in goal, Joshua Kimmich marshaling the midfield, and 19-year-old Florian Wirtz pulling strings in attack. Toni Kroos’s return to the national team has added experience and control, while Leroy Sané and Serge Gnabry provide lightning-quick width on the wings. Germany’s only weakness? Inconsistency—they’ve struggled to find their rhythm in recent friendlies—but playing at home could give them the extra edge to go deep. If they click, they have the talent to win it all.

Spain: The Return of Tiki-Taka

La Roja has undergone a rebuild under Luis de la Fuente, but their trademark possession-based football remains intact. Pedri and Gavi, both still in their early 20s, form a dynamic midfield duo, while Álvaro Morata’s clinical finishing upfront gives them a reliable goal threat. Spain won the 2022 Nations League, signaling their return to the top tier, and their young squad is hungry to prove themselves. Can they recapture the magic of 2008 and 2012? With their technical ability and tactical discipline, Spain will be tough to beat—if their defense (led by Aymeric Laporte) can withstand pressure from counter-attacking teams.

Portugal: The Perfect Blend of Experience and Youth

Portugal’s squad is a mix of seasoned winners and exciting youngsters, all led by Cristiano Ronaldo, the all-time leading goalscorer in men’s international football. Ronaldo’s leadership will be crucial, but Portugal’s strength lies in their depth: Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes control midfield, while João Félix and Rafael Leão provide attacking flair. Diogo Costa, in goal, is one of the best in the world, and the backline, featuring Pepe and Diogo Dalot, is experienced and reliable. Portugal won the 2016 European Championship and reached the 2019 Nations League final—they know how to win on the big stage. With Ronaldo’s drive and a squad full of talent, they’re dark horses no more.

Dark Horses to Watch

Don’t sleep on teams like Italy (the defending champions, though their form has dipped) or the Netherlands, who have a star-studded squad (Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong) but have underperformed in recent tournaments. Croatia, with their legendary midfield (Luka Modrić, Marcelo Brozović), could also make a run if their aging legs hold up.

The Verdict

Euro 2024 is wide open, but France and England stand out as the top contenders. France’s Mbappé gives them a game-changing weapon, while England’s golden generation has the talent to end their wait for a trophy. Germany’s home advantage and Spain’s technical mastery could also propel them to glory. One thing’s for sure: this summer’s tournament will be full of drama, upsets, and unforgettable moments. Who will lift the trophy? Only time will tell—but one thing’s certain: it’s going to be a spectacular ride.