With the Euro’s coming to a close, I started to think about what my ideal starting XI would be of all players that competed in the tournament. Keep in mind, this isn’t who I think performed the best in the tournament, but rather a team that I think would be the most successful moving forward. So without further adieu…
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK: Thibaut Courtois – The goalkeeper position is a tough one to choose, but in my opinion, Courtois is currently the best goalie in the world. He’s the complete package for a goalkeeper and is going to have some very successful seasons in the coming years.
LB: Danny Rose: I like Rose for his pace here. In this formation it’s important to get up and down the flanks, and he is well capable of that.
CB: Giorgio Chiellini – The Italian Center Back is undoubtedly one of the best in the world. His ferocious attitude and killer instinct really make him stand out amongst the rest.
CB: Jerome Boateng: It’s easy to notice the constant improvement in Boateng’s game. He’s currently in his prime and is still only getting better.
RB: Juanfran – At age 31, Juanfran seems to finally be hitting his stride. He was the best player for Athletico in the UCL final and had a great tournament for Spain (Until they were bested by Italy).
CDM: Luka Modric – Modric never ceases to amaze me. He is so great on the ball and is a real hound when trying to win it back. He was one of my only sure choices for this XI
CDM: Paul Pogba – Pogba is an all around star. He can defend, pass, dribble, and shoot with the best of each discipline.
LM: Eden Hazard – Although Hazard has a poor campaign in the premier league this season, he is so brilliant on the ball and is a master at creating chances.
CAM: Dimitri Payet – Payet came out of nowhere in the past year and has really made a name for himself, scoring goals straight out of a video game. He is one of the most deserving members of this team.
RM: Gareth Bale – If Bale still had any doubters, I’m sure he silenced them with his performance at the tournament. He has been unbelievable and has really cemented himself as one of the best players in the world.
ST: Cristiano Ronaldo – I like Ronaldo at Striker on this team, especially as there are no true standout strikers in the tournament.
Any thoughts? Comment below
~ Steven Hold
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