Euro 2024 has already seen significant contributions from young talent, with several rising stars shining in the opening round of fixtures.
Here are five young players who have stood out in the tournament:
Lamine Yamal (Spain)
The Spanish sensation Lamine Yamal has already set numerous records since emerging at Barcelona, becoming the youngest debutant and goalscorer for Spain by marking his first appearance with a goal in September. Now, at just 16 years old, he has become the youngest player in European Championship history after dazzling during La Roja’s 3-0 win over Croatia. Yamal showcased his quality by providing an assist with an inch-perfect cross for Dani Carvajal to score the third goal.
Despite not being old enough to legally drive in Spain, Yamal has already recorded seven goals and assists in eight appearances for the national team. His potential appears limitless.
Jude Bellingham (England)
It’s easy to forget that Jude Bellingham is still just 20 years old. His dynamic performance in Gelsenkirchen, where he led an unconvincing England side against Serbia, was another reminder of his brilliance. Bellingham was the match-winner at the Arena AufSchalke, scoring a decisive header that helped settle England’s nerves in their opener.
After an impressive debut season at Real Madrid, where he won a La Liga and Champions League double and earned the Spanish division’s Player of the Season award, Bellingham is now focused on success with England this summer. A standout performance at Euro 2024 could put the Ballon d’Or within his reach.
Jamal Musiala (Germany)
At just 21 years old, Jamal Musiala has been a revelation for Germany. The Bayern Munich midfielder’s versatility, vision, and technical skills have been crucial for his national team. His ability to play both as an attacking midfielder and on the wings has given Germany much-needed flexibility in their tactics. Musiala’s standout performance came in the group stage match against France, where he scored a spectacular goal and provided an assist.
Francisco Conceição (Portugal)
Francisco Conceição’s impressive season on loan at FC Porto secured him a spot in Portugal’s squad this summer. The 21-year-old winger scored eight goals during his breakout campaign at the Estádio do Dragão.
Following in the footsteps of his father, ex-Portugal international and former Porto boss Sérgio Conceição, Francisco made his mark at the European Championship.
Coming off the bench with Portugal struggling against a resilient Czech Republic, he took just 111 seconds to score the stoppage-time winner for Roberto Martinez’s side. This first international goal could be the start of a promising career with the national team.
Arda Guler (Turkey)
Nineteen-year-old Arda Guler has carried his excellent domestic form into Euro 2024. After finishing the La Liga season with Real Madrid by scoring five goals in his last five league fixtures, Guler has continued to impress on the international stage.
In Turkey’s opener against Georgia, with the scores tied at 1-1, Guler netted a spectacular long-range goal that is already being touted as a contender for goal of the tournament. At 19 years and 114 days old, he became the youngest player to score on their Euros debut, breaking Cristiano Ronaldo’s record.
Guler’s achievement is particularly poignant, as he wasn’t born when Ronaldo, now 39, set the record. This milestone serves as a fitting tribute to the Portuguese superstar, who is likely playing his last Euros and passing the baton to the new generation.