Minutes Are Crucial
So far there have only been two winners of the award. Renato Sanches won it for Portugal in 2016 and Pedri won it for Spain at Euro 2020, so we’ve only got a small sample pool to go on.
Bellingham Heads The Market
Looking at the markets for UEFA Young Player Of The Tournament at Euro 2024, Jude Bellingham is the warm favourite to win at 11/4.
The 20-year-old has stepped up to the plate since he joined Real Madrid, scoring 19 goals in La Liga. He’s able to play a number of positions in midfield, and has played as a number nine at times for Los Blancos.
Bellingham will be a key player for England at Euro 2024. He’s also got a very good chance of winning the main UEFA Player Of The Tournament as well at 9/1. Despite this I have to take him on as there could be a few young players that burst on the scene and cause a surprise at bigger prices
Palmer Ready To Pounce
Another English player, who could be in the mix for UEFA Young Player Of The Tournament is Cole Palmer at 16/1. He had an unbelievable season for Chelsea scoring 22 goals in the Premier League after moving from Man City.
Palmer can play in a variety of positions across the attacking line, but is probably most effective out wide. He’s a great passer and dribbler and has the ability to create a lot of chances. If he has an impact early in the tournament for England, he could find himself as a regular in Southgate’s starting eleven.
Muisala The Pin Up
Elsewhere, Jamal Muisala is fancied by some to be the UEFA Young Player Of The Tournament. He’s one of Germany’s rising young stars, and will be a big player for them if the home nation goes far in the tournament. The 21-year-old is a versatile player who can play in a variety of positions in midfield, as well as having an eye for goal.
However, as I mentioned in my outright preview I am not convinced that Germany will get to the latter stages. I can see them going out in the early knockout round. I’m happy to leave Musiala at 7/1.
Watch Out For Mendes Running Down The Wing
On the other hand, one team I do think is going to have a good Euros is Portugal, and it could be worth looking at Nuno Mendes at 50/1. He’s a left back that has become a regular starter for Portugal in the last couple of years.
Mendes is known for his speed and creativity going forward down the left-wing. He is also a key part of their defence. Furthermore, we know he’s going to play a lot in the Euros. As already mentioned, Pedri and Sanches, who previously won the award, regularly started for their team in the tournament. I do think Mendes could be a lively outsider, and a player to keep an eye on.
UEFA Young Player Of The Tournament Tips
Cole Palmer (16/1)
Nuno Mendes (50/1)
