Kylian Mbappe, Bukayo Saka and the 42 stars of African descent to watch at Euro 2024

Kylian Mbappe, Bukayo Saka and the 42 stars of African descent to watch at Euro 2024

Festus Chuma 10:06 - 14.06.2024

More than 42 players of African descent will showcase their diverse talents at Euro 2024, highlighting football's global reach and unity.

Football, akin to other sports, has a unique ability to bridge cultures and unite people from all corners of the globe.

Its immense reach and universal appeal make it a sport like no other inspiring countless individuals to traverse seas and continents in pursuit of their dreams or simply for a better life.

The UEFA European Championship, commonly known as the Euros, is one of the most-watched football tournaments worldwide, showcasing some of the best talents the sport has to offer.

This year, Euro 2024 in Germany will see a remarkable representation of players of African descent, highlighting the rich diversity and multiculturalism inherent in modern football.

Pulse Sports presents a team-by-team breakdown of these players, their origins, and their contributions to their respective national squads.

France

France boasts 14 players of African descent in their Euro 2024 squad, emphasizing the country's diverse talent pool.

Brice Samba, originally from DR Congo, has established himself as a formidable goalkeeper. Ferland Mendy, with roots in Senegal and Guinea-Bissau, is known for his defensive prowess.

Dayot Upamecano and Jules Koundé, from Guinea-Bissau and Benin respectively, solidify France's defense.

In the midfield, William Saliba and Ibrahima Konaté bring their Cameroonian and Malian heritage to the game.

Eduardo Celmi Camavinga (DR Congo) and Aurélien Djani Tchouameni (Cameroon) offer youthful dynamism. The experienced N'Golo Kanté and Youssouf Fofana, both of Malian descent, add stability.

Up front, France's attacking options include Kylian Mbappé, whose lineage traces back to Cameroon and Algeria, and Ousmane Dembélé, connected to Mauritania and Mali.

Randal Kolo Muani (DR Congo) and Bradley Barcola (Togo) complete the squad with their versatile offensive skills.

Belgium

Belgium's squad features nine players of African descent, each contributing unique strengths.

Romelu Lukaku, with Congolese roots, leads the attack with his powerful presence. Jérémy Doku, of Ghanaian heritage, is renowned for his speed and agility.

Ikoma-Loïs Openda (Morocco and DR Congo) and Johan Bakayoko (Rwanda and Ireland) add flair to the Belgian offense.

Midfielders Dodi Lukebakio (DR Congo) and Amadou Onana (Senegal and Cameroon) provide a robust presence, while Orel Mangala (DR Congo) and Youri Tielemans (DR Congo) ensure control and creativity.

Aster Vranckx, also of Congolese descent, rounds out Belgium's diverse lineup.

Switzerland

Switzerland's eight players of African descent reflect the country's multicultural makeup. Yvon Mvogo (Cameroon) and Manuel Akanji (Nigeria) anchor the defense.

Denis Zakaria, with roots in DR Congo and South Sudan, adds strength to the midfield, complemented by Breel Embolo (Cameroon) and Noah Okafor (Nigeria).

Kwadwo Duah (Ghana), Dan Ndoye (Senegal), and Mohamed Amdouni (Tunisia) bring their offensive capabilities to the Swiss squad, showcasing a blend of skill and heritage.

England

England's Euro 2024 list includes six players of African descent, each making significant contributions. Bukayo Saka, with Nigerian roots, is a versatile winger.

Kobbie Mainoo (Ghana) and Eberechi Eze (Nigeria) offer creativity and flair in midfield. Marc Guéhi (Côte d'Ivoire) and Ezri Konsa (DR Congo) provide defensive solidity, while Joe Gomez (The Gambia) ensures strength at the back.

Germany

Germany's five players of African descent highlight the country's evolving football landscape.

Antonio Rüdiger, of Sierra Leonean descent, is a defensive stalwart. Jamal Musiala (Nigeria) brings youthful energy to the midfield.

Jonathan Tah (Côte d'Ivoire), Benjamin Henrichs (Ghana), and Leroy Sané (Senegal) complete Germany's lineup, each adding their unique skills and heritage.

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