Euro 2020: Ranking the top 5 players from the group stages
The group stages of UEFA Euro 2020 concluded yesterday, and it's fair to say we've seen some world-class football already.
The knockout stages are scheduled to kick off on June 26th, and we finally have the full lineup of the round of 16. Several teams have impressed, while some others haven't. On that note, let's take a look at the top five players from the group stage at Euro 2020.
#5. Georginio Wijnaldum - Netherlands
Georginio Wijnaldum impressed everyone concerned during the group stages. The ex-Liverpool midfielder was named captain of Le Oranje in the absence of Virgil van Dijk, and has stepped up to the plate in style.
The Netherlands had a perfect record in the group stages, winning all three of their games. Wijnaldum has surprised with his goalscoring form in the tournament, having already netted three goals in the group stage.
He scored the first of the Netherlands' eight group-stage goals against Ukraine and went on to bag a quick brace against North Macedonia as well. His form in midfield was one of the main reasons behind the Netherlands' success in the first round.
With the Netherlands seemingly part of the easier knockout bracket at Euro 2020, Wijnaldum will look to carry his breathtaking form into the round of 16. Dutch fans will look to their captain to deliver and lead the Netherlands to a second European trophy.
#4. Memphis Depay - Netherlands
Having enjoyed a brilliant run in the group stages, Memphis Depay takes fourth spot in the top five players in the group stages.
Like his compatriot Wijnaldum, Depay has been instrumental in Le Oranje's success so far. The former Manchester United man has played all the group games, scoring two goals and bagging two assists.
Once considered not good enough for the Premier League, Depay has silenced critics with his constant improvement over the past two seasons. His outstanding performances sparked interest from Barcelona, who completed the signing of Depay on a free transfer.
Depay is the Netherlands' focal point in attack and will be looking to continue his impressive form into the knockouts. With the Netherlands playing Czech Republic in the round of 16, Depay will be key to the Le Oranje's hopes of progress in to the last eight at Euro 2020.