So far Euro 2024 has fully delivered on the promise of incredible football matches and non-stop action. Well, unless you are watching England of course. As we progress to the knockout stage for some more excitement, we take a look back at which players have stood out above the rest.
There have been a few surprise packages, as well as the consistent performers, making this a tournament that could go down in history.
So, without further ado, here is NetBet‘s Team of the Group Stage…
Goalkeeper – Giorgi Mamardashvili (Georgia)
With Georgia’s shock qualification for the knockout stage, their whole team has exceeded expectations. And none more so than shot stopper Mamardashvili, who has delivered game-saving stops and acted as a general from the back. He has been vital to Georgia’s good form and shown that he should be in the conversation with some of the best goalkeepers in Europe.
Right Back – Stefan Posch (Austria)
Austria have been more than impressive so far this tournament, with many tipping them to go deep into the competition and upset some big names along the way. Manager Ralf Ragnick has cultivated an extremely organised and ambitious team that thrives on tactical astuteness. Exciting full-back Posch is a big part of this for the Austrians and has been instrumental in their success.
Centre-Back – Robin Le Normand (Spain)
Spain are the only side to have won every single group game and are yet to concede a goal, largely down to their aptitude in defence. Le Normand has been physical and dynamic at the back, all whilst remaining composed and classy in possession. The epitome of Spanish football and exactly what you would expect from a La Roja defender.
Centre-Back – Radu Dragusin (Romania)
Spurs defender Dragusin has further enhanced his status at the Euros by putting in solid performances every single game. He is strong and passionate and has helped carry this underdog Romania team to the knockouts when many expected them to exit the tournament with a whimper.
Left-Back – Max Mittelstadt (Germany)
The Stuttgart defender is still a relative unknown to many and his international career is young even at the age of 27, but his exploits in the Bundesliga more than justify his call up. Mittelstadt fits manager Julian Nagelsman’s system perfectly by offering support going forward, as well as being quick and intelligent in defence.
Centre Midfield – Toni Kroos (Germany)
We were all sad to see the announcement of Kroos’ decision to retire after the tournament. But looking to add to this season’s Champions League with Real Madrid, he has not slowed even one step and has been the classiest midfielder to take to the pitch so far this summer.
Centre Midfield – Konrad Laimer (Austria)
Bayern Munich’s consistent performer has maintained his reputation in the red of Austria this summer. Essential in their impressive performances, Laimer’s work-rate is second to none and he remains calm under pressure at all times, regularly contributing to Austria’s clever build-up play with fast and effective passing.
Right Midfield – Lamine Yamal (Spain)
At just 16 years of age, Barcelona’s Yamal is surpassing everyone’s expectations of him. Securing a starting spot for both club and country so early on in his career is nothing short of astounding. He is direct and turns defenders inside out, vital to Spain’s attacking efforts. But he shows incredible maturity as well, knowing when to embark on his winding runs and when to contribute to a passage of play by simply keeping possession.
Left Midfield – Nico Williams (Spain)
So far Williams has shown both why he was selected for Spain and why clubs across Europe are currently scrambling for his signature. He is incredibly fast and direct, while his delivery from out wide is top notch. The amount of tools this young man has in his game to cause opponents problems is quite amazing and we cannot wait to see him play again in the knockout stage.
Attacking Midfield – Jamal Musiala (Germany)
A less surprising pick is that of Bayern’s young midfielder who has had his name on the map for a couple of seasons now. But this year Musiala looks intent on confirming his decision on playing for Germany over England with a trophy. Musiala has opponents sweating every time he is on the ball, constantly looking to penetrate defensive lines. His ability to create chances is almost unmatched and he has already bagged two goals at the tournament.
Striker – Niclas Fullkrug (Germany)
Leaving out top scorer Georges Mikautadze of Georgia was not easy, but Dortmund’s No9 has really impressed us with two excellent goals. A true striker with strong positional awareness and power on the ball, Fullkrug has acted as way more than the support man to Kai Havertz, as everyone thought he would be prior to the tournament. In fact, he has assured the role and made it his own, proving himself essential to Germany’s goal-scoring efforts.
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