The final squad lists for Euro 2024 have now been released, which means we know who will be participating in the showdown in Germany.
However, it’s also crucial to acknowledge some significant absences. Here are the top 10 biggest players who will miss Euro 2024.
10. Paul Pogba: Banned for Doping
Paul Pogba’s absence from Euro 2024 stems from a four-year ban for doping. After missing the 2022 World Cup due to injury, Pogba’s career has taken a downturn, and this ban further complicates his return to top-level football. His absence leaves a void in France’s midfield options.
9. Mats Hummels: Overlooked Despite Stellar Form
Mats Hummels, who was pivotal in Dortmund’s Champions League campaign, was surprisingly left out of Germany’s squad by Julian Nagelsmann. Despite his age, Hummels’ form warranted inclusion, and his absence raises questions about Germany’s defensive strength heading into the tournament.
8. Ben White: Turning His Back on the National Team
Ben White’s absence from the Euros comes from his decision to not be considered for national team selection. Despite being one of the best right-backs in the Premier League this season, White informed Southgate and the England camp that he didn’t want to be called up, preferring to focus on his club career with Arsenal.
7. Marcus Rashford: Poor Form Costs a Spot
Marcus Rashford is another notable absentee. Despite his poor season with Manchester United, some England fans believe his x-factor and ability to change games should have warranted a call-up. Southgate, however, decided against including the winger, focusing on players in better form.
6. Raheem Sterling: Fallen Down the Pecking Order
Raheem Sterling, who starred in England’s Euro 2020 campaign, finds himself out of the squad for Euro 2024. Falling down the pecking order, Sterling’s form hasn’t been up to par, leading to his exclusion. This decision has sparked debate among fans about whether his experience and x-factor could have been beneficial for the team.
5. Reece James: England’s Right-Back Woes
Reece James, who recently suffered an injury in December, will also miss the Euros. Despite his return to fitness, Southgate opted for other right-back options like Walker, Trent, and Trippier. This decision means the Chelsea defender will not be adding to his England caps this summer.
4. Gavi: Spain’s Young Star Injured
Spain’s midfield prodigy Gavi will not be seen in Euro 2024 due to an ACL injury sustained while representing Spain in November. The young superstar has been a revelation since his debut, and his absence will undoubtedly impact Spain’s midfield dynamism and creativity.
3. David Alaba: Austria’s Captain Sidelined
Austria will be missing their captain, David Alaba, due to an ACL injury. Although Austria qualified, the absence of their key defender will be felt, especially in the challenging group of death alongside France, Poland, and the Netherlands. Alaba’s leadership and defensive prowess will be sorely missed.
2. Thibaut Courtois: A Dispute with the Coach
Belgium qualified for the Euros, but their star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois won’t be part of the squad. Despite recovering from injury and being available for selection, Courtois was not called up due to a fallout with coach Domenico Tedesco during a qualifying game. This ongoing dispute has left Belgium without their first-choice shot-stopper.
1. Erling Haaland: Norway’s Striker Struggles
Despite his status as one of the best strikers in the world, Erling Haaland will be absent from Euro 2024. Norway’s failure to qualify for yet another international tournament means Haaland, alongside Martin Ødegaard, will miss out on showcasing their talents on this grand stage. Fans are beginning to question their impact at the national level, especially when players like Gareth Bale and Robert Lewandowski have carried their nations to tournaments.
These ten players’ absences will undoubtedly have an impact on Euro 2024. Whether due to injuries, personal decisions, or controversies, the tournament will miss the presence and talents of these footballing superstars. As fans, we can only hope for their swift return to the international stage in future tournaments.
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