Euro 2024: 24 Rising Stars to Watch in Germany

Euro 2024 marks 20 years since Wayne Rooney emerged as a global talent at Euro 2004. Now, as we look to the upcoming European Championship in Germany, many of the 622 potential players are already known. However, some could become the next big stars.

To highlight these rising talents, BBC Sport’s Euro 2024 TV and radio commentators have identified 24 players, outside the Premier League and Scottish Premiership, who are worth watching this summer.

Firstly, Martin Baturina (Croatia), the 21-year-old midfielder from Dinamo Zagreb has earned the title ‘The Next Modric’. Steve Wilson notes that Baturina had a standout season and caught the attention of Juventus and Arsenal.

Meanwhile, Warren Zaire-Emery (France), the 18-year-old midfielder from Paris St-Germain, already plays a key role for PSG. According to Vicki Sparks, Zaire-Emery delayed his exams to participate hoping for game time despite France’s strong midfield.

Next, we have Benjamin Sesko (Slovenia), a 21-year-old striker from RB Leipzig. John Murray points out that the 6ft 5in striker has been prolific with Arsenal previously linking him to a big transfer bid.

Additionally, Brian Brobbey (Netherlands), the 22-year-old striker from Ajax, scored 22 goals in all competitions for Ajax despite a difficult season for the club, as highlighted by Robyn Cowen.

Florian Wirtz (Germany), a 21-year-old midfielder from Bayer Leverkusen, remains another player to watch. Alistair Bruce-Ball emphasizes Wirtz’s role as a creative force for Leverkusen expecting him to shine for Germany.

In goal, Giorgi Mamardashvili (Georgia), a 23-year-old from Valencia, enjoys high regard. Steve Wilson mentions Mamardashvili’s crucial performances for both Georgia and Valencia.

On the wings, Johan Bakayoko (Belgium), a 21-year-old from PSV Eindhoven impressed this season and attracted interest from top European clubs as noted by Steve Wilson.

Moving on, Georgiy Sudakov (Ukraine), a 21-year-old midfielder from Shakhtar Donetsk stands out as a dynamic player likely to move soon with several London clubs expressing interest, according to Steve Wilson.

Jamal Musiala (Germany), a 21-year-old midfielder from Bayern Munich continues to be an exciting prospect. Alistair Bruce-Ball highlights Musiala’s experience and importance for Germany at his third major tournament.

Furthermore, Joao Neves (Portugal), a 19-year-old midfielder from Benfica could see significant transfer interest if he performs well, says Steve Wilson.

Strahinja Pavlovic (Serbia), a 23-year-old centre-back from Red Bull Salzburg expects to start for Serbia. John Murray describes Pavlovic as a solid defender.

In defense, Leopold Querfeld (Austria), a 20-year-old centre-back from Rapid Vienna earned the nickname ‘The Austrian Wall’. Steve Wilson notes Querfeld’s eye-catching defensive skills.

Arda Guler (Turkey), a 19-year-old midfielder from Real Madrid showcased his talent after recovering from injury. John Murray expects Guler to play a key role for Turkey.

Another versatile player is Xavi Simons (Netherlands), a 21-year-old forward from PSG. Vicki Sparks and Robyn Cowen both highlight Simons’s skill and potential to impress after excelling on loan at RB Leipzig.

Zeno Debast (Belgium), a 20-year-old centre-back from Anderlecht/Sporting, gained valuable experience at the World Cup and recently transferred to Sporting, as noted by Steve Wilson.

Meanwhile, Mario Mitaj (Albania), a 20-year-old left-back from Lokomotiv Moscow, likely moves to a bigger club soon, according to Steve Wilson.

Vladyslav Vanat (Ukraine), a 22-year-old striker from Dynamo Kiev stands out for his pace and control. Steve Wilson expects Vanat to be a key player off the bench.

Jeremie Frimpong (Netherlands), a 23-year-old right-wing or right-back from Bayer Leverkusen has been effective and versatile. Vicki Sparks emphasizes Frimpong’s importance for the Netherlands.

Matej Jurasek (Czech Republic), a 20-year-old winger from Slavia Prague, shows promise and remains one to watch, according to Steve Wilson.

Morten Hjulmand (Denmark), a 24-year-old midfielder from Sporting, plays a key part in Sporting’s title-winning team. John Murray highlights Hjulmand’s relatively new presence on the international stage.

Kenan Yildiz (Turkey), a 19-year-old striker from Juventus, makes a name for himself after rejecting offers from Barcelona. Steve Wilson points out Yildiz’s rising profile.

Lazar Samardzic (Serbia), a 22-year-old midfielder from Udinese expects to move to a bigger club and potentially succeed Tadic as noted by Steve Wilson.

Adam Obert (Slovakia), a 21-year-old centre-back from Cagliari, makes his mark both at Cagliari and on the Slovakian national team, according to Steve Wilson.

Lastly, Zan Vipotnik (Slovenia), a 22-year-old striker from Bordeaux emerges as a promising talent despite Bordeaux’s struggles. Steve Wilson highlights Vipotnik’s potential.

These players are poised to make an impact at Euro 2024 showcasing their talents on the international stage.