Euro 2016: 7 players that you cannot risk ignoring at the tournament
After months of feverish excitement and perpetual drama that included a dethroned UEFA president, the glorious European showpiece is finally upon us. Many memorable moments will be created, and bitter rivalries spanning decades will be rekindled as the cream of the continent vye for glory in a tournament that is assured to be a thoroughly exciting spectacle, with supporters around the world promised a flurry of goals and 30 days of ceaseless frenzy.
The Euros have always served as a great launching pad for young prospects looking to improve their credentials, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wesley Sneijder, Wayne Rooney and Bastian Schweinsteiger having received their big breaks in previous versions of the tournament.
Here’s a look at seven such prospects who have the capability of becoming the breakout stars of the Euros 2016:
#7 Breel Embolo – Switzerland
The 19-year-old wonderkid currently plying his trade in Switzerland for perennial champions FC Basel is one of the most sought after prospects in world football and like his Swiss compatriot Granit Xhaka, could soon earn himself a move to a European heavyweight.
Combining pace, vivacity and clever movement, the Cameroon-born centre-forward has enjoyed two highly successful seasons in the Swiss Premier League, grabbing 13 goals and 7 assists in just 27 appearances in their most recent title-winning campaign, and earning himself a long list of admirers which reportedly includes the likes of Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Tottenham.
The Swiss possess a young and spirited squad, and this summer could prove to be a great opportunity for Embolo to showcase his talents and announce himself on the international stage.