“I don’t think Rio Ferdinand will like to be one-vs-one against him” - Juan Mata praises ‘dangerous’ Spain star ahead of Euro 2024 final
Former Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has praised Spain forward Nico Williams ahead of the Euro 2024 final showdown with England this weekend. The Premier League icon reckoned that the winger has been very dangerous in the tournament while joking that even Rio Ferdinand wouldn't like to go one-on-one against him.
England and Spain both made it to the Euro 2024 final after beating the Netherlands and France respectively in the semifinals. As the anticipation reaches its peak ahead of the showdown tomorrow (July 14), Juan Mata couldn't help but highlight the threat posed by Nico Williams.
"He has been very dangerous in this Euros," the Spaniard said on Rio Ferdinand's YouTube channel 'FIVE'. "As a defender, I don’t think Rio will like to be one-vs-one against him. He’s probably the quickest [player] in the tournament and he’s so direct. He just puts the ball there and beats you [for pace]."
“He has also improved a lot in his decision-making, which is always difficult when you’re going at such speed. He’s only 21-22 as well, he looks older compared to Lamine but they’re both very young," Mata said.
The iconic midfielder also showered praise on Spain boss Luis de la Fuente for finding the attacker and his partner-in-crime Lamine Yamal and getting the best out of them at Euro 2024.
"I think that the coach [Luis de la Fuente] deserves credit for finding these two weapons. They’re very young and it’s not easy to put these young players in the XI and find balance with the likes of Dani Olmo, Rodri and Fabian [as well]. It feels like everyone is connected to each other and really feels like a team," Mata added.
Nico Williams has scored one goal and assisted another for Spain at Euro 2024 but numbers alone can't do justice to his impact. The winger has been a constant threat to opposition defenses since the tournament kicked off, playing a key role in helping his team penetrate the opposition box.
Euro 2024 final: Players to look out for as Spain and England clash for glory
Williams is undoubtedly one of the players to keep an eye on on Sunday. His daring runs, electrifying dribbling, and brilliance on the flanks will definitely cause England a lot of trouble.
His partner-in-crime Lamine Yamal shocked the world with his rocket goal versus France and will be another threat to the Three Lions while players like Dani Olmo, Rodri, and Fabian Ruiz would also be instrumental in La Roja's bid for continental glory.
On the flip side, England have lethal weapons like Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Kobbie Mainoo to count on. These players have been brilliant for club and country and all eyes will be on them as well.