The excitement for Euro 2024 is reaching fever pitch, and former England star turned pundit Paul Merson has made a bold claim—England must win the tournament. Speaking exclusively to Krikya, Merson dissected why the Three Lions have the strongest squad in Europe and why only two players from other nations—Virgil van Dijk and Kylian Mbappé—could break into their dream XI.
Why England Are Euro 2024 Favorites
Merson’s confidence isn’t unfounded. England’s recent performances, squad depth, and tournament experience make them the team to beat.
- France? A close contender, but England held their own in their last meeting, with Harry Kane’s missed penalty being the difference.
- Germany? Rebuilding phase—not a major threat.
- Portugal? An aging squad lacking the dynamism of past years.
Merson emphasized: “No team can live with England over a month of football. We’ve got bench players who’d start for any other nation—Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish included.”
Southgate’s Trust in Experience Over Experimentation
With the squad announcement looming, Gareth Southgate is expected to stick with his core group. Merson believes this is the right approach:
- Kalvin Phillips & Jordan Henderson – Despite limited club minutes, their experience is invaluable.
- Marcus Rashford – Even amid inconsistent form, his game-changing ability secures his spot.
- No Room for Risks – Young talents like Kobbie Mainoo will likely feature for the U21s instead.
“Tournaments aren’t the time for experiments,” Merson stressed. “Southgate trusts his proven players, and that’s why England nearly won the last two major tournaments.”
Premier League Title Race: Arsenal’s Uphill Battle
Switching focus to domestic football, Merson weighed in on the thrilling Premier League title race:
- Arsenal’s Tough Run – Trips to Man City, Chelsea, and Tottenham make their path difficult.
- Liverpool & City’s Edge – Both have the experience to handle pressure in tight games.
- Spurs’ Wildcard Role – Their attacking style could benefit title rivals by leaving spaces to exploit.
Aston Villa’s Top-Four Hopes Hang in the Balance
Villa’s recent struggles against high-pressing teams (Newcastle, Spurs) raise concerns, but their fixture list offers hope:
- Spurs’ Brutal Run – Still to face Arsenal, Liverpool, and Man City.
- Villa’s Key Matches – A win at West Ham could reignite their Champions League push.
Final Verdict: England’s Time to Shine
Merson’s message is clear: England have the talent, depth, and experience to lift the Euro 2024 trophy. With Krikya bringing you the latest insights, fans can expect an electrifying summer of football.
Do you agree with Merson’s assessment? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for more expert analysis!