The European Championships are just around the corner as reigning champions Italy head to Germany to defend their title, but are they among the favourites to win it?
The group draw has been made with some nations still to be confirmed via the play-offs, but this international break allows everyone to see how countries are shaping up for the tournament.
Here are the favourites to be crowned the best country in Europe this summer, according to the odds…
ENGLAND – 3/1
A semi-final, final and quarter-final in their last three tournaments, is this the year Gareth Southgate’s England can finally get over the line? England’s attacking talent is arguably the best in international football, in Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham they have a midfield duo that would rival anyone, and if their defence can be as resolute as it has at recent major tournaments, they can certainly go all the way.
FRANCE – 7/2
Embed from Getty ImagesThe former world champions may feel like they have a point to prove in Germany this summer. Stung by the heartbreak of penalties in both the World Cup final and round of 16 in Euro 2020, Didier Deschamps’ team will be out to prove themselves again.
Kylian Mbappe famously missed the decisive penalty against Switzerland three years ago, but he is someone who frequently responds to setbacks by scoring goals like he did in the 2022 World Cup. Starlets like Aurelien Tchouameni, William Saliba and Warren Zaire-Emery mixed with the know-how of Antoine Griezmann, Theo Hernandez and Olivier Giroud is a dangerous combination for anyone to face.
GERMANY – 6/1
Embed from Getty ImagesThe hosts of Euro 2024 have suffered heavily in recent international tournaments. Two group stage exits and a round of 16 nightmare against England in their past three, Julian Nagelsmann has work to do to restore Die Mannschaft to the top of international football.
The last time Germany welcomed tournament football to its country, they reached the 2006 World Cup semi-finals. With a new generation coming through and home fans expecting a good showing, it could be the impetus they need to succeed.
SPAIN – 7/1
Embed from Getty ImagesSince the Spanish national team swept everyone aside between 2008-2012, they have reached just one semi-final of a major tournament. The loss of Pedri to injury is a huge blow to Luis de la Fuente’s aspirations, as well as facing the ‘group of death’ alongside Italy and Croatia.
But with their undoubted quality and style of play, you can never discount Spain from challenging for the prize.
PORTUGAL – 8/1
Embed from Getty ImagesCristiano Ronaldo’s final farewell? Portugal bravely dropped the highest-scorer in the history of international football during the 2022 World Cup. Whilst it worked for one game, they ended up going out to Morocco. In response, only Romelu Lukaku scored more during Euro 2024 qualifiers than Ronaldo, so is it time for one last dance?
Lionel Messi lifted the World Cup in Qatar, now can Ronaldo lead Roberto Martinez’s side to lift the Euros? Portugal were the only nation with a 100% qualifying record for this summer, scoring 36 goals in 10 games, and are stacked with other talent too including Rafael Leao and Bernardo Silva.
