“I can understand the criticism” - Ilkay Gundogan rates England’s chances of winning Euro 2024 after disappointing group stage display
German midfielder Ikaay Gundogan weighed in on England's chances of winning Euro 2024 after an underwhelming display in the group stages. He asserted that they cannot be underestimated looking at their results.
While Germany is a strong favorite to win the tournament, Gundogan believes it is not yet time to underestimate the Three Lions. He sai after facing quite a few English players in the Premier League during his time at Manchester City.
Speaking to The Athletic, the Barcelona star spoke in favor of the English side. He acknowledged how they topped their group despite some considering the results not up to the mark.
"Never underestimate England. They finished top of the group and got the results. In these tournaments, that's a massive thing. Getting the results gives you confidence and motivation to play better. It's just about getting into the next round all the time," Gundogan said.
The German also compared England's squad to that of France's in terms of talent, acknowledging the two as the teams with the most potential. However, he also said he understood the reason behind the recent criticism of England, saying:
"Maybe only France have a similar squad in terms of talent and potential. England are still among the favourites. In the knockouts, they are full of experience — but I can understand the criticism saying they could play better."
Ahead of facing Denmark in the Round of 16 on June 29, Ikay Gundogan said that the mood in Germany is quite good but stressed on bringing results. He said:
"In our case, you can see how getting results over the line can make the difference. The mood around Germany is very good, but that's because we get results."
Southgate's men ended their Euro 2024 group stage round with a near-miss 1-0 win against Serbia and two draws against Denmark (1-1) and Slovenia (0-0). They finished with five points at the top of Group C. Germany also finished at the top of their group with seven points from two wins and one draw.
Wayne Rooney predicts England's chances of winning the Euro 2024
In a conversation with The Times, former English icon Wayne Rooney believed that the Three Lions have a fair chance of winning Euro 2024. Despite backing his team strongly, Rooney also admitted that the English could play much better.
He said:
"I think they have a great chance of winning these Euros, I really do. They won their group, are into a half of the draw where they avoid the biggest teams and we know – and they know – they can play a lot better."
The Three Lions have not won a major international trophy for 58 years, having won the World Cup in 1966. In the 2020 Euros, they lost to Italy in the final on penalties at Wembley. The 2024 edition could be Gareth Southgate's final chance at winning big with the team.
They are set to face Slovakia in the Euro 2024 Round of 16 on June 30 (Sunday) at VELTINS-Arena. They will face Switzerland in the quarter-final if they qualify.