Less than a month ago, Manchester City took home yet another Premier League title. Given the team was coming off its continental treble, the season was booked out for them. Along with the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup, Man City also took on the FA Community Shield, EFL Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, and UEFA Super Cup.
It’s been a long season—but it’s not over yet. The Euros are here, which means Man City players are returning home to represent their national teams across Europe. Given the bitter results of the last Euros, all eyes are on the Lions, in particular, to change their luck this tournament.
In terms of betting, most fans are laser-focused on their national team’s odds. However, player props are also on the agenda, especially for some of Europe’s biggest stars. Those looking to explore bet365 Euro Betting markets can also take a close look at props like leaders in goals and assists.
Unsurprisingly, Man City have more than a few players with short odds on player props, including Phil Foden, Kevin de Bruyne, and Rodri. But not all the Blues will be enjoying a run with their national teams. Norway failed to qualify, barring Erling Haaland from building his international caps. Similarly, non-European stars like Julian Alvarez will instead be focused on South American international play.
But this year’s Euros is a big deal for Man City—especially all the players who saw their hopes dashed back in 2020.
A Look Back at 2020
The last Euros result was a devastating one for just about everyone on Man City aside from Roberto Mancini. Kyle Walker, Phil Foden, John Stones, and Raheem Sterling walked away from Wembley Stadium having seen their hopes dashed in a penalty shootout. Foden had already been delivered a killing blow as a foot injury saw him sit out the Finals.
To say that Man City felt the last results of the Euros would be an understatement. English players aside, Nathan Ake debuted for the Netherlands only to see his side exit thanks to the Czech Republic. De Bruyne faced injury concerns throughout the competition—which saw him exit during Belgium’s loss to Italy in the semis.
Clearly, the Blues are motivated to lead their national team to the finals. But which players will go the furthest to do that?
Phil Foden, England
Foden is expected to play a critical role on the Lions squad as a playmaker in the midfield. At the moment, it’s unclear whether he’ll play a more central role controlling the midfield or will make another appearance as a winger. As a creative player with great vision, most pundits think he should be playing a central role.
In fact, some believe that Foden will play a critical role in leading England to a win—especially if he can seamlessly work with Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice. The trio could easily control the game… assuming they’re able to work together quickly and efficiently.
Kevin de Bruyne, Belgium
Compared to the 2020 Euros Belgian squad, this year’s team doesn’t look nearly as appealing. Pundits have been focused on the end of Belgium’s ‘golden generation’, which peaked back in the late 2010s. But they do have a few secret weapons in their back pocket.
Along with de Bruyne, Eden Hazard, and Toby Alderweireld, the Belgian national side also has newcomer Domenico Tedesco. The manager doesn’t have any previous experience leading a national team, but he’s done well by previous sides like RB Leipzig and Schalke.
Rodri, Spain
Similar to Foden, Rodri is expected to lead the charge for Spain in the midfield. And when it comes to leadership, vision, and experience, Rodri and the Spaniards certainly have an edge over England. In fact, heading into the tournament, Spain dominated metrics like possessions, accuracy, and completed passes.
Rodri won’t be alone, either. He has others like Pedri, David Raya and Marc Cucurella to rely on. This might be what pushes Spain ahead of others—a slightly longer list of slightly more experienced players. But that’s nothing new for the Spanish team—and it hasn’t led them to a major international victory in recent years.
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