Euro 2020: Ranking the 5 most valuable France players
With Euro 2020 kicking off on June 11th, we are now at the end of the first Gameweek. Having seen all 24 teams in action, we now have a fair idea of what to expect from the different sides participating in the tournament.
2018 World Cup winners France got their campaign underway last night and came out victorious in an enthralling game against Germany. Through a fighting 1-0 victory, France showed viewers worldwide why they have been identified as favorites at Euro 2020.
On that note, let's take a look at the top five most valuable players in the current French squad.
#5. Antoine Griezmann | £54 million
Antoine Griezmann is a name that divides opinion among fans worldwide. A France regular since 2014, Griezmann has always excelled for Les Bleus.
Arguably France's best player during their triumphant World Cup run of 2018, Griezmann is surely one of the first names on Didier Deschamps' team sheet. His World Cup exploits sparked the interest of Spanish heavyweight FC Barcelona, who signed him in 2019. Barca triggered the Frenchman's release clause, worth a mammoth £107 million at the time.
Since then, one could argue that Griezmann is yet to hit his best stride at the club level. His numbers over the past two seasons have been ordinary, and Barca no longer seem the force they once were.
Griezmann recently turned 30, and with Barcelona in financial trouble, his club future seems to be in doubt. Currenly valued at £54 million, his performance at Euro 2020 could help set the right asking price for buyers in the market.
#4. Paul Pogba | £54 million
Paul Pogba is one of the most heavily debated players in the footballing world, especially in the buildup to Euro 2020. A French player since 2013, Pogba has divided opinion among fans and pundits worldwide.
The midfielder has been the subject of intense media scrutiny since 2016 when Manchester United signed him for a reported £89.3 million. He became the world's most expensive player at the time, and whether or not he has warranted his price tag remains to be seen. So far, the Frenchman has won only two trophies with the Red Devils over five seasons.
Pogba has been the polar opposite for France. His performances have consistently improved over time, with the 28-year-old often looking incapable of errors. He was a key member of the 2018 World Cup triumph, even bagging a goal in the final.
Pogba is currently valued at £54 million. Having been linked with a move away from Old Trafford for the last two years, Euro 2020 could be vital in determining where the Frenchman will play next.