Now that the Euros and Copa America are over, the spotlight is on the Olympics to bring the football fans their next fix of international football. Brazil, Argentina and Spain are among the favourites to win the gold medal in the competition, and here are five players who could lead their national teams to victory.
Diego Lainez
Lainez has struggled to make it into the Real Betis starting lineup, but heads into the Olympics as Mexico’s number 10. The responsibility will be on his shoulders to help his country and showcase his talents at the same time.
Andre-Pierre Gignac
Gignac has been called up to the France squad for the first time since 2016. He did not make the list ahead of France’s star-studded forwards at Euro 2020 but now has the chance to shine with the world watching.
Pedri
Pedri was named the Young Player of the Year during the Euros and continues to represent Spain, this time at the Olympics. He will no doubt be the one to watch alongside Pau Torres, Bryan Gil and Dani Olmo.
Take Kubo
Kubo endured a difficult start to his life as a Real Madrid player, but now has the perfect opportunity to showcase his talents. While Japan are not the favourites in the competition, he has the advantage of having no pressure to perform.
Dani Alves
The 38-year-old missed out on Brazil’s Copa America squad due to injury, but will now captain them in the Olympics. Alves is the most decorated player of the 21st century, and could add to his long list of prizes with a gold medal in Tokyo.
