As the UEFA Euro 2024 approaches, football fans around the world are eager to discover the breakout stars of the tournament. While many of the 622 players set to feature in Germany are not total unknowns, there are still some hidden gems who have the potential to become world-beaters. BBC Sport’s TV and radio Euro 2024 commentators have picked 24 players from outside the Premier League and Scottish Premiership who are worth watching out for this summer.
One player to keep an eye on is Martin Baturina from Croatia. The 21-year-old midfielder has been dubbed ‘The Next Modric’ due to his impressive performances for Dinamo Zagreb. With interest from Juventus and Arsenal, Baturina is set to make a big move in the near future.
Another young talent to watch is Warren Zaire-Emery from France. The 18-year-old midfielder has already proven himself as one of Paris St-Germain’s standout performers this season, earning him the UNFP Young Player of the Year Award. Despite the competition in France’s midfield, Zaire-Emery hopes to get a chance to showcase his skills on the big stage.
Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko is also one to watch. The 21-year-old, who is being compared to Zlatko Zahovic, has attracted attention from Arsenal with his impressive goal-scoring record for RB Leipzig. With a potential transfer fee of £50m-plus, Sesko could soon make a name for himself as one of the best Slovenian outfield players of all time.
Brian Brobbey from the Netherlands is another breakout star to look out for. The 22-year-old striker had a standout season with Ajax, scoring 22 goals in all competitions. Despite having only one senior cap, Brobbey has already tasted success on the international stage, winning back-to-back Under-17 European Championships.
Florian Wirtz from Germany is a player who has already made a name for himself in club football. The 21-year-old midfielder has dazzled in Bayer Leverkusen’s team and will be looking to make an impact for Germany after missing out on the World Cup due to injury. Alongside Wirtz, Jamal Musiala is another young star to watch. The 21-year-old, who grew up in London and represented England up to under-21 level, is already at his third major tournament for Germany. Musiala brings speed, skill, and invention to the team and could thrive with the support of home fans.
These are just a few of the breakout stars to watch at Euro 2024. From goalkeepers like Giorgi Mamardashvili of Georgia to midfielders like Joao Neves of Portugal, there is no shortage of young talent ready to shine on the international stage. As the tournament unfolds, football fans will eagerly await the emergence of these rising stars and the impact they will have on their respective teams.