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By Martin Graham | 19th Jun 2024
Arda Guler and Francisco Conceicao delivered standout performances at Euro 2024, highlighting the rise of the next generation of football stars.
Arda Guler, the 19-year-old dubbed the ‘Turkish Messi,’ scored a stunning goal as Turkey triumphed 3-1 over Georgia in their European Championship debut. Guler’s spectacular 20-yard strike made him the youngest player to score on his Euros debut, joining the ranks of Ferenc Bene and Cristiano Ronaldo, who also scored in their first Euros appearances. Since joining Real Madrid from Fenerbahce in July, Guler initially struggled with fitness and form but ended the season on a high note, scoring five goals in five league matches and helping his team secure the La Liga title. He also made history as the first Turkish player to win the Champions League.
Former Wales captain Ashley Williams praised Guler’s goal on BBC One, calling it “an incredible goal” and a perfect introduction to the major tournament stage. Former England defender Stephen Warnock echoed these sentiments on BBC Radio 5 Live, noting Guler’s impressive touches and calling his goal a “moment of magic.”
The future of European football
In Group F’s second match of the day, Porto’s 21-year-old Francisco Conceicao scored just 111 seconds after coming off the bench, securing Portugal’s 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic. Conceicao’s last-minute goal continued the trend of young players making significant impacts in the tournament.
Other young stars have also shone at Euro 2024. Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala impressed in Germany’s opening win against Scotland, earning comparisons to Kaka from Arsenal legend Ian Wright. Florian Wirtz, a 21-year-old forward from Bayer Leverkusen, became the youngest player to score for Germany at the European Championship.
Barcelona’s 16-year-old Lamine Yamal set a new record as the youngest player to appear in the European Championship. Yamal dazzled in Spain’s 3-0 victory over Croatia, showcasing skills beyond his years. Meanwhile, England’s Jude Bellingham, who plays for Real Madrid, became the first European player to participate in three major international tournaments before turning 21, scoring the winning goal in England’s match against Serbia.
With established stars like Robert Lewandowski, Luka Modric, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Pepe possibly playing in their final European Championship, the performances of these young talents suggest a bright future for European football.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
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