With UEFA Euro 2024 set to kick off in Germany this June, two of the tournament’s top contenders — France and England — have officially announced their final 26-man squads.
The selections by Didier Deschamps and Gareth Southgate feature a mix of youth and experience, with several surprise inclusions and notable returns sparking debate among fans and pundits.
🇫🇷 France Squad Highlights – Selected by Didier Deschamps
France, the 2018 World Cup champions and EURO 2016 finalists, have named a star-studded squad led by Kylian Mbappé, who is expected to captain the team.
✅ Key Names Included:
- Kylian Mbappé (PSG / Real Madrid) – Forward
- Antoine Griezmann (Atlético Madrid) – Midfielder/Forward
- Eduardo Camavinga & Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid) – Midfield duo
- Theo Hernandez (AC Milan) – Left-back
- Mike Maignan (AC Milan) – First-choice goalkeeper
❗ Surprise Inclusions:
- Bradley Barcola (PSG) – The young winger earns his first major tournament call-up.
- Jean-Clair Todibo (Nice) – Solid Ligue 1 season rewarded with a place in defense.
❌ Notable Omissions:
- Paul Pogba – Still out due to suspension and fitness issues.
- N’Golo Kanté – Despite improved form in Saudi Arabia, not selected.
🏴 England Squad Highlights – Selected by Gareth Southgate
England, runners-up at Euro 2020, will look to go one better this time, with a strong mix of established stars and emerging talents.
✅ Key Names Included:
- Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) – Captain and all-time top scorer
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – In outstanding form in La Liga
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Phil Foden (Man City), and Declan Rice (Arsenal) – Core midfield and attack
❗ Surprise Inclusions:
- Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United) – Teenage midfielder called up after a breakout season.
- Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United) – Rewarded for his pace and goal contributions.
❌ Notable Omissions:
- Raheem Sterling – Left out for the second major tournament in a row.
- Jadon Sancho – Despite recent loan revival at Dortmund, not included.
🗓️ Euro 2024 Key Info:
- Host Nation: Germany
- Tournament Dates: June 14 – July 14, 2024
- Opening Match: Germany vs Scotland (Munich)
- Final Match: Olympiastadion, Berlin
France are drawn in Group D with Netherlands, Austria, and a playoff winner.
England are in Group C, facing Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia.
📢 Manager Comments:
Didier Deschamps (France):
“We have depth, youth, and experience. The objective is clear — win it.”
Gareth Southgate (England):
“We’ve picked players in top form. This squad can compete with anyone.”
📌 Full Squad Lists Available in the “EURO 2024” Section
Stay tuned for tactical previews, match build-up, and full squad breakdowns in the coming days.