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UEFA Euro 2020 kicks off on June 11th, with Turkey taking on Italy in the tournament opener after a year's delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The likes of defending champions Portugal and reigning world champions France, two of the favourites at Euro 2020, possess a plethora of world-class defenders. On that note, let's take a look at the top five defenders to watch out for at Euro 2020:
#5 Luke Shaw (England)
Luke Shaw is coming off a fabulous club season for Manchester United. He featured in 32 Premier League games, often relegating new signing Alex Telles to the bench.
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His quality on the field was clear to see, as the left-back notched up five assists and a goal for the Red Devils.
Shaw was rewarded for his performances with a spot in the Premier League Team of the Season, as well as the Manchester United Player's Player of the Year award.
The Manchester United defender has been capped nine times by the Three Lions. Recalled to the England side, Shaw, thanks to his blistering recent form, should tough competition to Ben Chilwell for the left-back spot.
Also Read: Fabrizio Romano’s Transfer Roundup: Update on Lionel Messi’s contract, Chelsea’s plan for the summer, and more.
#4 Jules Kounde (France)
Jules Kounde has been the talk of the town after enjoying a fabulous campaign with Sevilla.
Predominantly a centre-back, the 22-year-old is versatile and can play at right-back as well. His physical attributes enable him to contest defensive duels effectively, almost always coming out as the winner. His reading of the game, positional sense and ball distribution are excellent.
Following a successful club season, Kounde was rewarded with a France call-up. He is expected to challenge with the likes of Benjamin Pavard and Presnel Kimpembe for a place in the starting XI at Euro 2020.
Considering his attributes, there is growing interest in Kounde from several European heavyweights. If he makes a mark at Euro 2020, the Frenchman's stock could skyrocket.
#3 Alessandro Bastoni (Italy)
Alessandro Bastoni of Italy could be one to watch out for at Euro 2020. After first making his mark at Atalanta, he moved to Inter Milan in 2017 before becoming a starter two years later.
In 2020-21, the centre-back played a key role in helping Inter Milan win their first Scudetto in 11 years. He was a mainstay in the Nerazzurri defence throughout the season, with his exceptional performances earning him an Italy call-up.
Bastoni is expected to start for Italy at Euro 2020 alongside veterans Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini. Capped five times by the Azzurri, the 22-year-old would look to make a mark in his first major international tournament.
#2 Aymeric Laporte (Spain)
After failing to make the cut for France, considering their incredible squad depth, Aymeric Laporte recently switched teams and will represent Spain at Euro 2020. Laporte announced in May 2021 that FIFA approved his change of nationality, making him eligible to represent Spain at Euro 2020.
Laporte's defensive abilities are well documented; he was a crucial part of Manchester City's title-winning run in the 2018-19 season, making 51 appearances across all competitions. His contributions enabled City become the first team to win the English domestic treble.
However, an injury that year meant Laporte had to endure an extended break from the game, and John Stones became a starter for Manchester City. On the international stage, Laporte was yet to make an appearance for Les Bleus. That seemingly triggered his decision to represent Spain, for whom he was eligible to play due to his Basque great grand-parents.
Considering the lack of experienced defensive options for Spain, Laporte, who made his debut against Portugal, could play a key role for La Furia Roja at Euro 2020.
#1 Ruben Dias (Portugal)
Ruben Dias has had a meteoric rise to fame after Manchester City paid Benfica a reported £62 million to secure his services in September 2020.
Dias has been the catalyst behind City's defensive transformation, which culminated in the Cityzens' Premier League and Carabao Cup triumphs. The centre-back topped off a successful debut season in English football by winning the coveted Premier League Player of the Year award, becoming only the fourth defender to do so.
Dias has been instrumental in Manchester City's defensive success in 2020-21. So Portugal manager Fernando Santos will hope Dias carries his electric form to Euro 2020 as well.
Perched in a difficult group, Portugal face an uphill task of defending their Euro 2020 title. Dias will look to play a key role in ensuring Portugal make a deep run at the tournament.
There is a certain personal stake involved as well, with the defender receiving numerous shouts for the Ballon D'Or award. If Portugal successfully defend their title, Dias could be one of the favourites for the award, even ahead of his compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo.
His partnership with his Manchester City teammate Joao Cancelo could be a key factor in Portugal's success at Euro 2020. Capped 27 times by Portugal, Dias should one of the first names on the team sheet in the heart of defence, alongside veterans Pepe and Jose Fonte.
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