England’s Final 26-Man Squad for Euro 2024
Gareth Southgate has finalized his 26-man squad for Euro 2024 after initially naming a 33-player provisional squad. The final roster features a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents as England aims for glory in Germany.
Goalkeepers
Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), and Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace) have been selected as the three goalkeepers. Pickford remains Southgate’s undisputed number one, with Ramsdale providing solid backup and Henderson rounding out the trio.
Defenders
The defense is anchored by the experienced John Stones (Manchester City), Kyle Walker (Manchester City), and Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United). They are joined by the emerging talents of Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Lewis Dunk (Brighton), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), and Luke Shaw (Manchester United).
Midfielders
The midfield boasts an exciting mix of youth and experience. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), the breakout star, is joined by Declan Rice (Arsenal), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), and the versatile Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool). Promising youngsters Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), and Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace) have also made the cut.
Forwards
Leading the attack is the prolific Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), who will be supported by Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Phil Foden (Manchester City), and Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United). Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa), Ivan Toney (Brentford), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), and the highly-rated Cole Palmer (Chelsea) provide additional firepower.
Formation and Tactics
Southgate is expected to deploy his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, with Pickford in goal, a back four of Trippier, Stones, Guehi, and Shaw, and a midfield pivot of Rice and Bellingham. Saka, Foden, and Bowen could occupy the attacking midfield roles behind Kane.
Strengths and Weaknesses
England’s squad boasts a wealth of talent, with a strong core of players who have experienced major tournaments together. However, defensive depth remains a concern, with Trippier often deputizing at left-back due to injuries.
As one of the pre-tournament favorites, England will be expected to mount a strong challenge for the Euro 2024 title. With a balanced squad and Southgate’s tactical acumen, the Three Lions have the potential to end their long wait for international silverware.