Euro 2024 Best XI: 1 Player From 11 Nations Including Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe

As Europe prepares for the spectacle of Euro 2024, the continent's most talented football stars will all be on display, representing their countries with pride.

With such a wealth of talent on show, the competition promises to be fierce and captivating.

With this in mind, Sports Brief has named their best XI at Euro 2024, choosing just one player from each country.

Euro Best XI – Top Players From Each Nation

Jan Oblak (Slovenia) - Goalkeeper

Renowned as one of the world's premier shot-stoppers, his selection allows for more options when selecting players from the elite European nations.

While Slovenia's chances of winning the tournament may be slim, they are likely to concede few goals with Oblak in goal.

Joshua Kimmich (Germany) - Right-back

Joshua Kimmich is still regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, despite Bayern Munich's disappointing season.

Often likened to the legendary Philipp Lahm, Kimmich's versatility and ability to play in midfield have been crucial for both club and country.

However, it's his excellence as a right-back that sets him apart. At 29 years old, Kimmich's selection highlights his importance and quality in the squad.

Manuel Akanji (Switzerland) - Centre-back

A key figure in Manchester City's Premier League triumph last season, the 28-year-old defender, Manuel Akanji, has been a standout performer.

Akanji epitomises the modern centre-back, combining athleticism, pace, strength, and aerial ability.

His commanding presence makes him a formidable opponent, embodying the qualities essential for a top-tier defender.

Virgil Van Dijk (Netherlands) - Centre-back

Regarded as one of the world's premier defenders, Virgil Van Dijk has achieved nearly every accolade with Liverpool, including lifting the Premier League trophy.

A potential candidate for the captain's armband, Van Dijk relishes the challenge of facing the best attackers.

While age may be catching up with him, and his physical abilities may have slightly diminished, his experience and defensive prowess remain top-notch.

Josko Gvardiol (Croatia) - Left-back

While Luka Modric may be the standout name in the Croatia squad, the 22-year-old left-back Josko Gvardiol is our confident pick for this team.

Despite his young age, Gvardiol has shown immense quality and potential, playing a key role at Manchester City.

With his exceptional left foot, Gvardiol is poised to be one of the players to watch at Euro 2024, especially in this Croatia team that tends to go far.

Rodri (Spain) - Central midfield

Despite already featuring two Manchester City stars in this lineup, one player we could not overlook is Rodri.

The 27-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best players in his position, with many feeling he deserved the PFA Player of the Year award in the recently concluded season.

Watching Rodri is just as enjoyable as witnessing Sergio Busquets in his prime, so we made him our first midfield selection.

Jude Bellingham (England) - Central midfield

From this point on, each player we select could arguably have a case for being the best player in the world.

Among England's galaxy of stars, Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham stands out as a star in the making.

There's no doubt you'll see 'Bellingham' in Best XI lists for years to come. He is definitely one to watch at the Euros.

Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium) - Central Attacking Midfield

Widely regarded as one of the best playmakers in world football, Kevin De Bruyne is undoubtedly the standout choice from the Belgian national team.

His vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game make him a formidable force in midfield.

De Bruyne's creativity and knack for scoring crucial goals have made him a vital player for both Manchester City and Belgium.

With his talent and impact on the game, he is a key player to watch at Euro 2024.

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Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) - Right-wing Forward

While Federico Chiesa was considered for this position, it would be deemed disrespectful to overlook Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 39 years old.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, now playing for Al Nassr, is a bona fide goal machine and will forever be remembered as one of the greatest to have played the game.

According to beIN Sports, this Euro tournament marks Ronaldo's final appearance, and he is sure to make a lasting impact for his country.

Kylian Mbappe (France) - Left-wing Forward

The 25-year-old forward, set to join Real Madrid after this tournament, is arguably the best player in the world right now.

Known for his flair, trickery, and blistering pace, Mbappe is a constant threat to opposition defences.

He was one of the first names we thought of for this team, highlighting his exceptional talent and impact on the game.

Mbappe is expected to set Euro 2024 alight, and it won't be a surprise if he is named Player of the Tournament.

Robert Lewandowski (Poland) - Striker

Robert Lewandowski is the sole reason we include a Polish player in this Best XI.

The Barcelona striker has consistently been one of the best strikers in world football, showcasing his talent not only during his time at Bayern Munich but also in his earlier days at Borussia Dortmund.

While Poland may not be the favourites to win the European championship, they can certainly expect to celebrate a couple of goals with Lewandowski leading the attack.

Euro winners: which country has the most titles?

The UEFA European Championship, commonly known as the Euros, ranks as one of the most-watched soccer tournaments worldwide, second only to the FIFA World Cup.

In a recent report, Sports Brief delved into the history of Euro Cup winners, highlighting countries that have clinched the title most frequently and strategies that led to success.