Top 5 Underrated Footballers to Watch at Euro 2020
As the UEFA European Championship approaches, all eyes are on the biggest stars and powerhouse nations. However, major tournaments often provide a stage for lesser-known talent to emerge and leave a lasting impression. Below, we profile five underrated players who could make a significant impact at this summer’s Euros.
Declan Rice: England’s Midfield Anchor
Declan Rice heads into the tournament following a standout season with West Ham United, during which he was instrumental in their Premier League campaign. With Jordan Henderson’s fitness uncertain, Rice is expected to play a pivotal role at the base of England’s midfield under Gareth Southgate. At only 22, he brings impressive composure, tactical understanding, and leadership to the team. Whether in a 4-3-3 formation or as part of a double pivot in a 3-4-3, Rice’s defensive awareness and ability to dictate play from deep make him one of England’s most important, yet underrated, assets.
Gerard Moreno: Spain’s Hidden Goal Threat
Gerard Moreno enters the Euros after a spectacular campaign for Villarreal, tallying 23 goals in La Liga and adding seven more during their Europa League triumph. Despite not being Spain’s most celebrated forward, Moreno is staked to play a vital role under Luis Enrique. Comfortable as a right winger or leading the line, his intelligent positioning and clinical finishing add a new dimension to Spain’s attack. The potential partnership with Ferran Torres offers Spain valuable flexibility and unpredictability, making Moreno a forward to follow as Spain aims for European glory.
Nicolo Barella: Italy’s Midfield Maestro
Nicolo Barella’s consistent excellence for Inter Milan has earned him a starting spot amidst Italy’s wealth of midfield talent. The 24-year-old was central to Inter’s Serie A title-winning run and has grown into one of the most dynamic midfielders in Europe. With competition from the likes of Jorginho, Locatelli, Pellegrini, and Verratti, Barella’s creativity, energy, and tactical discipline set him apart. Whether deployed in a box-to-box role within a 4-3-3 or pushed wider to accommodate other stars, Barella will be a key orchestrator of Italy’s game plan.
Pau Torres: Spain’s Emerging Defensive Leader
Pau Torres, like clubmate Gerard Moreno, enjoyed a breakthrough season as Villarreal secured the Europa League trophy. The young center-back is expected to line up alongside Aymeric Laporte, forming one of the most intriguing defensive partnerships of the competition. At just 24, Torres provides composure, aerial strength, and excellent ball distribution from the back. With Spain seeking to replace legendary defenders such as Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique, this tournament could see Torres firmly establish himself as the cornerstone of the nation’s backline for years to come.
Zeki Celik: Turkey’s Unsung Defensive Star
Mehmet Zeki Celik comes off a remarkable season with Lille, where his performances at right-back were crucial to the club’s Ligue 1 title run. His dynamic play is pivotal to a Turkish side touted as potential dark horses, especially given their strong defensive fundamentals. Alongside central defenders such as Caglar Soyuncu and Merih Demiral, Celik’s overlapping runs and defensive tenacity will be vital for Turkey’s ambitions. For a team thriving on organization and surprise, Celik is the type of underrated player who can make a real difference in the knockout rounds.
Conclusion: Ready for Breakout Performances
While established superstars will naturally dominate headlines, the contributions of these underrated players could prove crucial for their nations throughout the tournament. Whether they are holding midfield, orchestrating attacks, or fortifying the defense, keep a close watch on these five names as Euro 2020 unfolds — you might just witness the emergence of football’s next big stars.
