Manchester United Players Competing in EURO 2024 An Assessment of Their Squad Selection and Tournament

 


The 2024 European Football Championship, also known as EURO 2024, is set to kick off in Germany, featuring some of the world's top football talent. Among these talented players are several Manchester United stars who have earned selection for their respective national teams. In this blog, we will analyze how these Manchester United players got into their squads and assess their chances of success in the tournament.

Scotland - Scott McTominay

Scott McTominay, a vital cog in Scotland's midfield, will be a significant goal threat for his country. The 27-year-old scored an impressive seven goals in eight Euro 2024 qualifiers and will face a stern test against Germany on June 14. McTominay's inclusion in the squad is a testament to his consistent performances for both Manchester United and Scotland. His ability to score crucial goals and provide defensive solidity will be crucial for Scotland's chances in the tournament.

England - Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo

Luke Shaw, the only United defender called up for Euro 2024, has much to prove in terms of fitness. Still recovering from a nagging hamstring injury, Shaw would likely be England's starter at left-back if Southgate had his way. Kobbie Mainoo, who had a meteoric rise for United and broke into England's selection thoughts during the March international break, has earned a spot in the squad, though his game time remains uncertain. Both players will face stiff competition for their positions, but their inclusion in the squad highlights their potential to make an impact.

Denmark - Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Hojlund

Christian Eriksen, despite a lackluster season for Manchester United, is back competing for Denmark at the Euros. The midfielder's return comes just three years after his harrowing cardiac arrest incident on the pitch while representing his country. Rasmus Hojlund, who finished the 2023/24 season strongly with 16 goals across all competitions, including five in the Champions League, will be crucial for Denmark's chances against formidable opponents like England in Group C. Both players will be key to Denmark's success, with Eriksen's experience and Hojlund's goal-scoring prowess making them a formidable duo.

Portugal - Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot

Bruno Fernandes is expected to start in every one of Portugal's matches at Euro 2024, having played in all 10 of their qualifying matches. Portugal boasts impressive depth, particularly in defense, so Diogo Dalot's automatic starting position at full-back is not guaranteed. However, his versatility to play on both sides is an invaluable trait for manager Roberto Martinez. Fernandes' ability to create chances and score crucial goals will be crucial for Portugal's success, while Dalot's defensive solidity and attacking flair will provide a valuable asset to the team.

Turkey - Altay Bayindir

Altay Bayindir, who made just one appearance for United during the 2023/24 season, has been included in Turkey's 35-player preliminary squad for Euro 2024. The former Fenerbahce number one goalkeeper's nine international caps should stand him in good stead when Vincenzo Montella trims down his party to the final 26 players. Bayindir's inclusion highlights his potential to make an impact for Turkey, particularly in goal.

Tournament Prospects

Given the talent and experience within these Manchester United players, they have a strong chance of making a significant impact in the tournament. Here are some potential outcomes for each player:

  • Scott McTominay (Scotland): McTominay's goal-scoring ability and defensive solidity will be crucial for Scotland's chances. He could potentially score crucial goals and help Scotland advance to the knockout stages.
  • Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo (England): Both players will face stiff competition for their positions, but their inclusion in the squad highlights their potential to make an impact. Shaw's fitness will be crucial, while Mainoo's game time remains uncertain.
  • Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Hojlund (Denmark): Both players will be key to Denmark's success, with Eriksen's experience and Hojlund's goal-scoring prowess making them a formidable duo. They could potentially lead Denmark to the knockout stages.
  • Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot (Portugal): Fernandes' ability to create chances and score crucial goals will be crucial for Portugal's success, while Dalot's defensive solidity and attacking flair will provide a valuable asset to the team. They could potentially lead Portugal to the knockout stages.
  • Altay Bayindir (Turkey): Bayindir's inclusion highlights his potential to make an impact for Turkey, particularly in goal. He could potentially help Turkey advance to the knockout stages.

Conclusion

The Manchester United players competing in EURO 2024 have a strong chance of making a significant impact in the tournament. Their talent, experience, and potential to make an impact will be crucial for their respective national teams. As the tournament unfolds, we can expect to see these players shine and make a lasting impression on the world stage.

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