The 17th edition of the UEFA EURO is just a few weeks away, with players from 24 nations ready to compete on Europe’s grandest stage. While excitement builds for fans, it’s a different story for some top players and managers. Unfortunately, injuries and suspensions have already ruled out several high-profile players. From Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois to Spain’s rising star Gavi, here’s a look at five standout talents who will be notably absent from this summer’s EURO 2024 in Germany.
Thibaut Courtois (Belgium)
Thibaut Courtois will miss Euro 2024 due to a dramatic fallout with Belgium’s head coach Domenico Tedesco. Courtois initially suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during pre-season, but despite making a comeback, he will not be part of the Belgian squad. The rift with Tedesco began last summer when Courtois felt snubbed for not being given the captain’s armband, leading to a public spat. Although Courtois expressed a desire to reconcile, the deep mistrust between him and Tedesco has made his participation in the tournament impossible.
Gavi (Spain)
Barcelona’s young sensation Gavi will also miss Euro 2024. The midfielder suffered a severe ACL injury and meniscus damage in a Euro 2024 qualifier against Georgia last November. Despite being a crucial player for Spain, the injury has sidelined him for the remainder of the season. The Spanish Football Federation has decided not to call him up for international duty until next year, even though he might be fit for the start of the 2024-25 campaign. Gavi’s absence is a significant blow to Spain, which will miss his dynamism in the midfield.
Marcus Rashford (England)
Marcus Rashford, a key figure in England’s recent major tournaments, will not feature in Euro 2024. The Manchester United forward has endured a challenging season, both on and off the pitch, managing only eight goals and five assists in 42 appearances. Despite his previous importance to the Three Lions, Gareth Southgate has opted to leave Rashford out of the squad. This decision marks a significant change for England, who have relied on Rashford’s attacking prowess in past tournaments.
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Sandro Tonali (Italy)
Sandro Tonali’s promising career has hit a significant bump as he will miss Euro 2024 following a 10-month ban for his involvement in illegal gambling. After transferring from AC Milan to Newcastle United, Tonali was performing well before the scandal broke. This suspension not only sidelines him from the tournament but also halts his progress and leaves a gap in Italy’s midfield. The 23-year-old’s situation underscores the severe consequences of off-field issues affecting on-field opportunities.
Paul Pogba (France)
Paul Pogba’s absence from Euro 2024 is due to a four-year ban after testing positive for a banned substance. The Juventus midfielder, already plagued by injuries, has been left “heartbroken” by this development. Pogba insists he never knowingly took performance-enhancing drugs, but unless he successfully appeals the suspension, his career with both Juventus and the French national team could be over. Pogba’s case is particularly tragic as he was battling to regain his form after missing the 2022 World Cup.
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