Best 10 Players Who Will Miss Euro 2024

How Will France’s Defense Cope Without Wesley Fofana’s Presence?

Wesley Fofana (France): Wesley Fofana’s cruciate ligament tear in July 2023 has been a devastating blow to his career and France’s defensive plans for Euro 2024. The Chelsea defender’s injury required a lengthy rehabilitation process, and despite his dedication to recovery, he will not be fit in time for the tournament. Fofana’s absence is particularly poignant given his rise as one of Europe’s most promising defenders, and his physicality and tactical awareness will be sorely missed by the French squad.

Can the Netherlands’ Defense Stay Solid Without Sven Botman?

Sven Botman (Netherlands): Sven Botman’s injury is a significant loss for the Netherlands’ defensive lineup. The Newcastle United defender suffered an ACL injury in a FA Cup match against Manchester City. Expected to be out for six to nine months, Botman will miss Euro 2024, a tournament where he could have made his mark internationally. Although the Dutch team has depth in defense, Botman’s physical presence and aerial ability would have been valuable assets, especially against strong opponents.

Who Will Lead England’s Defense with Tyrone Mings Out?

Tyrone Mings (England): Tyrone Mings’ ACL injury, sustained in a collision during a Premier League match, has ruled him out of Euro 20242. The Aston Villa captain’s leadership and defensive acumen were expected to be key for England, especially given his ability to organize the backline and contribute to set-pieces. Mings’ absence will force England manager Gareth Southgate to adjust his defensive strategy, as Mings was tipped to be a starting center-back for the Three Lions.

What’s Italy’s Plan B Without Domenico Berardi’s Flair?”

Domenico Berardi (Italy): Domenico Berardi’s completely torn Achilles tendon is a cruel twist of fate for the Italian forward who was looking to make a significant impact at Euro 20244. Berardi, who had been instrumental in Italy’s attacking play with his sharp movements and clinical finishing, will now face a long road to recovery. His absence will be a significant loss for Italy, as Berardi’s experience and ability to change games with individual brilliance were expected to be vital for the Azzurri’s chances.

What Impact Will Paul Pogba’s Suspension Have on France’s Midfield?

Paul Pogba (France): The news of Paul Pogba’s four-year suspension from football has sent shockwaves through the sport. The French midfielder, known for his dynamic play and World Cup heroics, tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone. This ban, which he is appealing, not only sidelines him from Euro 2024 but also casts a shadow over his entire career. Pogba’s absence will be profoundly felt by France, as his ability to control the midfield and contribute to both defense and attack was integral to their game plan.

How Will Austria Adapt to David Alaba’s Absence?

David Alaba (Austria): David Alaba’s ACL injury has been a significant setback for both Real Madrid and the Austrian national team. After undergoing further surgery to clean up his injured knee, his return has been delayed, with a comeback now expected around September or October 2024. This means Alaba will miss Euro 2024, a tournament where his leadership and versatility in defense and midfield would have been crucial for Austria. His absence is a major blow to the team’s hopes of success on the European stage.

Who Will Fill the Void in Italy’s Midfield Without Sandro Tonali?

Sandro Tonali (Italy): Sandro Tonali’s 10-month ban due to gambling addiction has shocked the football world. The Italian midfielder, who was a key figure for AC Milan and had become one of the most promising talents in the Italian national team, will not only miss the remainder of the season with Newcastle but also Euro 2024. His suspension, which includes an additional 6 to 8 months to be served in another way, such as attending therapy or community service, could be very damaging to his career. Tonali’s dynamic presence in the midfield would have been a key asset for Italy’s Euro campaign.

Can Spain’s Midfield Maintain Creativity Absent Gavi’s Genius?

Gavi (Spain): Gavi’s serious knee injury during Spain’s Euro 2024 qualifying win over Georgia has been a major setback for both the player and his national team. The Barcelona midfielder suffered a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, along with an associated injury to the lateral meniscus. This unfortunate incident occurred just as Gavi was establishing himself as a vital component of Spain’s midfield, known for his tenacity, vision, and skill. His absence from Euro 2024 is not only a blow to Spain’s aspirations but also halts the momentum of one of Europe’s most promising young talents.

Marcus Rashford Not Selected: What Does This Mean for England’s Attack?

Marcus Rashford (England): Despite being a key player for Manchester United and England in previous years, Marcus Rashford has been left out of England’s squad for Euro 2024. Rashford’s exclusion comes after a challenging season with Manchester United, where he scored only eight goals in 42 appearances. England manager Gareth Southgate has stated that other players in Rashford’s position have had better seasons, which influenced his decision.

Erling Haaland: What If Norway Had Qualified for Euro 2024?

Erling Haaland (Norway): Despite being one of the most formidable strikers in world football, Erling Haaland will not feature in Euro 2024, not due to injury, but because Norway failed to qualify for the tournament. Haaland’s absence is a significant loss for the tournament, as fans across Europe were eager to witness his goal-scoring prowess on the continental stage. His clinical finishing and physical presence would have added an extra layer of excitement to Euro 2024.

The absence of these ten players will be a silent narrative running parallel to the tournament’s drama. Who among the absentees will leave the biggest gap in their national squad? Comment and let us know.

Which Key Player will be absent from UEFA Euro 2024?

Paul Pogba: France’s Key Midfield Maestro Missing Euro 2024.
Background and Achievements:

• World Cup Heroics: Pogba played a crucial role in France’s 2018 World Cup victory, showcasing his ability to control the midfield, contribute to both defense and attack, and provide leadership on the field.
• Club Success: At the club level, Pogba has had a significant impact at Manchester United and Juventus, where his performances have often made him the focal point of the midfield.

Reason for Absence:

• Suspension: Pogba is currently serving a four-year suspension from football due to testing positive for elevated levels of testosterone. This ban has not only ruled him out of Euro 2024 but also casts a shadow over his entire career.

Impact of Pogba’s Absence

1. Midfield Dynamics:
   • Control and Creativity: Pogba is known for his ability to control the pace of the game and his creative passing, which can split defenses and create scoring opportunities. His absence will leave a void in France’s ability to dominate the midfield.
   • Versatility: Pogba can play in various midfield roles, from a deep-lying playmaker to an attacking midfielder, providing tactical flexibility that will be missed.
2. Experience and Leadership:
   • Big Match Temperament: Pogba has consistently performed in high-pressure situations, such as World Cup finals and Champions League matches. His experience and calmness under pressure are invaluable.
   • Leadership: As a senior player, Pogba’s presence in the dressing room and on the pitch provides a morale boost and guidance for younger players.
3. Tactical Adjustments:
   • Replacement Challenges: Finding a direct replacement for Pogba’s unique skill set and influence is challenging. While France has depth in their squad, the balance and synergy he offers will be hard to replicate.
   • Strategic Shifts: The French coaching staff will need to adjust their tactics to compensate for his absence, potentially altering the team’s overall playing style.

Comparisons to Other Absent Players

While other players like Wesley Fofana, Domenico Berardi, and Erling Haaland (due to Norway not qualifying) are also significant absences, Pogba’s combination of skill, experience, and influence arguably makes him the most impactful absentee.