Welcome back to TOP TEKKERS here at Cultmag and we return with the 2nd edition of TT and this time we are going to be looking at ‘Next Gen GameChangers To Watch’ at this summer’s Euro 2024. Which young baller will take that next step into fully fledged superstardom? Or will we see overlooked players coming out of the shadows to have a statement European Championships? Without further ado lets get into it!
Heorhiy Sudakov
Sudakov’s key strengths include his ability to control the tempo of the game, his vision for creating goal-scoring opportunities, and his excellent passing range. He is also known for his defensive contributions, such as his ability to win the ball back and disrupt the opposition’s play.
Despite the presence of other notable Ukrainian players like Mykhailo Mudryk, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Artem Dovbyk, Sudakov’s importance to the team should not be overlooked. While Mudryk and Dovbyk are known for their attacking prowess, and Zinchenko is a versatile player who can play in various positions, Sudakov’s role as a deep-lying playmaker is essential for maintaining balance and control in the midfield.
Sudakov’s ability to dictate the pace of the game and distribute the ball effectively can help Ukraine transition from defense to attack seamlessly. His tactical understanding and positional discipline make him a valuable asset in both defensive and attacking phases of play.
As we approach Euro 2024, Sudakov is expected to play a crucial role for Ukraine due to his exceptional skills, tactical awareness, and versatility on the field.
Johan Bakayoko
The newly turned 21 year old Belgian wonderkid, might be Belgium’s unsung hero at Euro 2024 due to his exceptional versatility and impact on the field. As a winger, his agility, speed, and dribbling skills can create crucial scoring opportunities and break through tough defenses. His ability to play on either flank provides tactical flexibility, allowing Belgium to adapt to various opponents. He could go on and help the Red Devils fill a certain Hazard sized hole left by one of Belgium’s best ever players. Heavily linked to Liverpool already ahead of the summer transfer window, Bakayoko is known for his work ethic and ability to deliver in critical moments which could make him a game changer, capable of turning the tide in tight matches and contributing significantly to Belgium’s European success.
Warren Zaire-Emery
Ahead of Euro 2024, Zaire-Emery is expected to make a significant impact on the French national team. At just 18 years old, he has already demonstrated exceptional skill, vision, and technique on the pitch. His ability to read the game and make intelligent decisions in midfield has drawn comparisons to some of the great French midfielders of the past.
The French midfield is indeed stacked with high-quality options, including the likes of Eduardo Camavinga, N’Golo Kante, and Aurelien Tchouameni. However, Emery’s youthful energy, creativity, and potential to grow further make him a strong contender for a spot in the national team.
Euro 2024 could be the perfect platform for Emery to showcase his talent and make a breakthrough in international football. His inclusion in the French squad would not only provide depth and versatility to the midfield but also serve as a testament to the country’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Lamine Yamal
If Lamine Yamal continues to develop and progress at his current rate, he could be a key player for Spain at Euro 2024. His skillset, which includes dribbling, passing, and finishing, would make him a valuable asset for the national team. Additionally, his youth and energy could provide a spark to the team, helping them to compete at the highest level in the tournament.
Lamine has come off an amazing debut season with Barcelona and at only 16 years old is one of the first names on the team sheet. If he can replicate this season’s form for Barca in the European Championships for Spain, then they could be dark horses for the European trophy. The boy has a special type of magic in his feet. Keep a close eye on Yamal in forthcoming seasons.
Florian Wirtz
Wirtz is expected to be a key player for Germany at Euro 2024 due to his exceptional technical ability, vision, and goal-scoring prowess. He has the potential to be a game-changer for the German national team, providing creativity and unpredictability in the final third. His ability to create chances and score goals from midfield will be invaluable for Germany, especially considering the team’s recent struggles in front of goal.
Furthermore, Wirtz’s youth and potential for growth make him an exciting prospect for the future. As he continues to develop and gain experience, he is likely to become an even more influential player for both Bayer Leverkusen and the German national team. The newest recipient of the Bundesliga Player of the Season is already on fire after (another) brilliant, historic season for Leverkusen and a 21 year old with 18 goals and 20 assists (all comps) in the 23/24 season is nothing to be sniffed at.
Eduardo Camavinga
It may seem as if Eduardo Camavinga has been around for years, but it’s easy to forget that this talented midfield maestro is still only 21 years old!! He could be a real key player for France at Euro 2024 due to his exceptional midfield talent. His versatility allows him to play multiple roles, from a defensive anchor to a box-to-box midfielder. His youthful energy and technical skills bring dynamism to the team’s play. Additionally, his composure and maturity on the pitch can help France navigate high-pressure situations in the tournament. With his ability to win back possession and initiate attacks, Camavinga’s influence on the field could be significant for France’s success.
Cole Palmer
Having enjoyed an extremely successful season with Chelsea, Palmer has honed his skills and gained invaluable experience playing alongside some of the best talents in the world. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game, drive forward with the ball at his feet, and unlock defenses with incisive passes make him a potent weapon in midfield.
Palmer’s breakthrough at Euro 2024 could be fueled by his newfound confidence and maturity on the pitch. Having proven himself at the club level, he enters the tournament with a point to prove on the international stage. His flair, creativity, and ability to perform under pressure could make him a standout performer for England, providing crucial goals, assists, and moments of brilliance that propel the team towards success.
Benjamin Šeško
At just 21 years old, he has already garnered attention for his performances in the Bundesliga in 2024 and his breakthrough into the national team. Sesko possesses a natural ability to find space behind the defensive lines, making him a constant threat to opposition defenses. His agility and acceleration allow him to leave defenders trailing in his wake, while his clinical finishing ensures that he capitalizes on scoring opportunities.
What sets Sesko apart is his adaptability and tactical awareness on the field. Despite his young age, he demonstrates a maturity beyond his years, often making intelligent runs and decisions that influence the outcome of matches.
At Euro 2024, Sesko’s breakthrough as a key player for Slovenia could stem from his ability to thrive under pressure. With his confidence and determination, he has the potential to make decisive contributions in crucial moments of the tournament. Whether it’s scoring vital goals or providing assists, Sesko’s impact could be instrumental in Slovenia’s quest for success on the international stage.
Dream Inclusion: Michael Kayode
At just 19 years old, Kayode has already made a significant impact in Serie A, showcasing his talent while playing for a top Italian club. His combination of strength, speed, and technical skill makes him a nightmare offensively and defensively. Whether deployed as an out and out winger, or marauding wing back Kayode has the ability to influence the game and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Kayode’s inclusion in Italy’s Euro 2024 squad would provide the team with a dynamic attacking option off the bench or as a rotational starter. His adaptability and work rate make him a valuable asset in different tactical setups, while his knack for finding the back of the net adds another dimension to Italy’s attacking arsenal.
Moreover, Kayode’s presence in the squad reflects Italy’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, showcasing the rich tapestry of talent within the country’s footballing ranks. As Italy looks to defend their European title at Euro 2024, Kayode’s inclusion could provide the spark needed to propel the team to success once again.
So after looking at a good number of options for ‘Next Gen Gamechangers to Watch’, who would you go with? Are there any players you would include in the list? It’ll be fun to see which young player will make a name for themselves on the world stage in less than a month. We’ll be watching with anticipation!