Who will start as favourites for Euro 2024?

27-11-2023

With qualification for Euro 2024 all but complete, fans are now asking who will win it.

Home advantage might see Germany considered one of the favourites. But a recent change of manager and some unimpressive recent results don’t bode well for them.

Holders Italy hardly looked worthy winners in qualification, and Spain are still rebuilding. 2024 could well be a showdown between France and England.

The case for France

In recent years, France have shown a level of consistency we used to associate with Germany. They have a settled team and have incorporated new players into it without the need for an overhaul.

Despite defeat in last year`s World Cup final, Didier Deschamps signed a new deal as manager. This was no surprise. In the early rounds, France looked like the team to beat. So it proved, with Messi at his mercurial best to defeat Les Bleus.

Their team has an almost embarrassing array of defensive talent that gives it depth in a vital area. Injuries and suspensions are unlikely to deny them a quality central defensive partnership.

Being hard to beat is the bedrock of most tournament winners. Football history is littered with teams who struggled to balance attacking flair with a solid defence. France have both and are considered among the favourites in most online betting markets.

In midfield, France have a mix of toughness and talent that makes them hard to break down. This solidity is enhanced by the return to form of Antoine Griezmann.

Once the forgotten man, his form last season saw him play a key role in the team’s route to the World Cup final. Now playing predominantly in a deeper role, his vision and creativity could help France return to the summit of European football.

France are still widely regarded as the best team in Europe and should start as favourites.

Can England go one better?

A home final against Italy may have been England’s best chance of winning a major tournament. After losing on penalties, though, England showed an unusual capacity to bounce back.

A World Cup semi-final and a strong qualifying campaign since should give them hope. After their World Cup exit, it initially appeared Gareth Southgate would step down. His decision to stay on could be the difference.



Southgate has managed to blend style and substance since taking charge of the team in 2016. Harry Kane is off to a flying start in the Bundesliga, and could have his first trophy by the time the Euros kick off.

The England manager also has plenty of emerging talent as well as some old heads. If England have an achilles heel, it’s their defence. Kyle Walker can’t go on forever and there is a severe lack of quality centre backs. While the bookies count England among the favourites, fans of football betting may not be quite so optimistic.

England can’t be ruled out, but they’ll need to be brave and play on the front foot. Sitting back will invite opponents to expose their weaker side. Creating opportunities for Kane is the best way to approach what looks like being Southgate`s final tournament.