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As Euro 2024 kicked off with a flurry of thrilling matches, certain players have already begun to shine, showcasing their talent and impact on the grand stage of European football. This Best XI from the tournament’s first week highlights standout performers across various positions, reflecting their exceptional form, skill, and contributions to their national teams. It is prepared based on the Comparisonator Artificial Intelligence algorithms. From solid defensive displays to creative midfield brilliance and clinical finishing up front, these players have caught the attention of fans and pundits alike, setting a high standard early in the competition.

In goal, Martin Dúbravka of Slovakia has been a standout figure, showcasing remarkable shot-stopping abilities and commanding his area with confidence. His crucial saves have been instrumental in Slovakia’s performances, earning him a place in this distinguished lineup. Alongside him, Michel Aebischer of Switzerland has impressed at left-back, not only providing defensive solidity but also making significant contributions in attack, demonstrating his versatility and skill on the ball.

The central defensive pairing features Samet Akaydin of Turkiye and Rúben Dias of Portugal, both displaying impeccable defensive awareness and leadership qualities. Akaydin’s commanding presence in the air and composure under pressure have been pivotal for Turkiye, while Dias continues to prove why he is considered one of Europe’s top defenders, with his ability to read the game and initiate attacks from the back.

On the right flank, Daniel Carvajal of Spain has been a constant threat going forward, combining defensive diligence with precise crosses and overlaps that have troubled opposition defenses. His experience and tactical acumen have been crucial for Spain’s defensive stability and attacking prowess down the wing.

In midfield, N’Golo Kanté of France has once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world, with his tireless work rate, interceptions, and ability to break up opposition play. Alongside him, Fabian Ruiz of Spain has been a creative force in midfield, dictating the tempo of matches with his vision, passing range, and ability to orchestrate attacks from deep.

In the advanced midfield role, Jude Bellingham of England has been a revelation, showcasing maturity beyond his years with his technical skill, tactical awareness, and ability to link midfield and attack seamlessly. His performances have been pivotal in England’s dynamic play and attacking threat in the final third.

On the wings, Arda Güler of Turkiye and Cody Gakpo of the Netherlands have dazzled with their pace, dribbling ability, and incisive runs into the box. Güler’s clinical finishing and Gakpo’s creativity have added a new dimension to their respective teams’ attacking play, providing crucial goals and assists that have made them standout performers in the tournament so far.

Up front, Kai Havertz of Germany has led the line with aplomb, demonstrating his versatility as both a goal scorer and a playmaker. His movement off the ball, technical proficiency, and ability to create chances for himself and teammates have made him a formidable presence in the opposition’s penalty area.

Overall, this Best XI from Euro 2024’s first week reflects the diversity of talent and skill across Europe, highlighting players who have risen to the occasion and made significant impacts for their national teams. As the tournament progresses, these players will undoubtedly continue to be key figures in their teams’ quests for glory, shaping the narrative of Euro 2024 with their exceptional performances on the pitch.

Selected via Comparisonator machine learning index.
Data Comparisons provided by Comparisonator is for educational purposes only and not intended to be monetized.

Didem Dilmen

Director of Communications @ Comparisonator