Several countries want UEFA to keep the 26-player squads for the European Championship. This could avoid some dilemmas for Domenico Tedesco.
Unlike Euro 2021, which followed (or even took place simultaneously with) the coronavirus epidemic, and the 2022 World Cup which confirmed the switch to 26, Euro 2024 should return to pre-Covid practices. This again means a group of 23 players.
But Gareth Southgate, interviewed by the Daily Mail, confirmed that several federations would approach UEFA on the issue. There would be calls to keep the selections of 26 players.
So the question is: who are the Red Devils who, in the event of expansion to 26 players, could breathe a sigh of relief?
Arnaud Bodart
If UEFA sticks with the group of 26 for Euro 2024, it is almost certain that Tedesco will go to Germany with four goalkeepers. And that fourth goalkeeper will most likely be Arnaud Bodart. Of course, Tedesco could also select 4 goalkeepers in case of a “limited” group of 23 players, but that is less certain.
Koni De Winter
Was Koni able to convince De Winter enough against Ireland? Maybe. His match in Dublin wasn’t bad. But as is known, the national coach would rather want to bring an extra attacking player to provide weapons, even if this could provide special options at the back (such as Onana as a central defender against Ireland).
If he has 26 players at his disposal, Tedesco does not have to make this difficult choice. De Winter, who is behind Vertonghen, Faes and Debast in the hierarchy, would almost certainly be part of the 26.
Arthur Vermeeren
However, Arthur Vermeeren could not convince against Ireland. Given the fierce competition in midfield (Onana, Mangala, Vranckx and Tielemans are assured of their places, as are De Ketelaere slightly higher and De Bruyne if fit), Vermeeren could miss the European Championship, especially if he is not at Atlético Madrid gets more playing time.
In case of expansion to 26 players for Euro 2024, Arthur Vermeeren would be one of the possible lucky ones.
Michy Batshuayi
Many are wondering whether Michy Batshuayi will be present at the European Championships. Domenico Tedesco has tried playing with two forwards, but the results have always been mediocre at best, and often downright poor. Loïs Openda is Lukaku’s official back-up and Charles De Ketelaere (almost assured of a selection) can play as a striker if necessary.
But as mentioned earlier, Tedesco is also experimenting at the back to see if he can spare a defender, perhaps bringing an extra attacker. This attacker would then be Batshuayi.
