Intro

Every four years, the best national football teams in Europe compete in the UEFA European Championship, also known as the Euro. This tournament is one of the most prestigious trophies in international football, uniting fans all across the continent in support of their respective nations. From Germany to England, Spain to Italy, the Euro is a chance for countries to make their mark on the international soccer scene. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the strongest contenders for the 2020-21 European Championship.

France

France is the current reigning World Cup champions and favorites to win the Euro. They are led by an incredibly talented squad of players, including Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappé, and Paul Pogba, among others. They are a strong team all around, with a solid defense and ruthless attacking capabilities. French coach Didier Deschamps knows how to utilize his team's strengths, and his tactical nous may prove to be the difference in a close game. Expect France to go far in this year's tournament.

England

England has been knocking on the door of international success for years now, and this may be their best chance yet to finally win a major trophy. They have a young, talented squad featuring the likes of Harry Kane, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford. The team is well-coached by Gareth Southgate, who has instilled a sense of discipline and composure in his players. England's defense is particularly strong, with players like Kyle Walker, Harry Maguire, and John Stones keeping the backline secure. With the tournament being hosted in England's own backyard, expect the Three Lions to have a raucous home crowd behind them every step of the way.

Spain

Spain is a two-time European Championship winner (2008, 2012) and is looking to reclaim the title after a disappointing early exit in 2016. Their squad is not as star-studded as some of the other top teams, but they play an attractive brand of football with their emphasis on possession and intricate passing. The likes of Sergio Busquets and Thiago Alcantara provide a strong foundation for Spain's midfield, while Alvaro Morata and Gerard Moreno will lead the line up front. Spanish coach Luis Enrique will be looking to replicate the success of his predecessors, Vicente del Bosque and Luis Aragonés, in guiding the team to European glory once again.

Italy

Italy is a team that many are calling the dark horse of the tournament. They have not been as dominant in recent years as they were in the past, but they have a solid squad that could surprise many. Italy's defense, led by veteran center-back Giorgio Chiellini and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, is one of the best in the tournament. Their midfield is a mix of youth and experience, with players like Nicolo Barella and Lorenzo Pellegrini complimenting the older heads of Jorginho and Marco Verratti. The question mark for Italy will be their attack, with no clear-cut star striker leading the line. However, they did score 37 goals in their ten qualifying matches, so they do have the potential to find the back of the net when it matters most.

Germany

Germany is a team that always seems to be in the hunt for trophies. They won the 2014 World Cup and will be hungry to add another European Championship to their trophy cabinet. Their squad is full of quality players, including Leroy Sane, Kai Havertz, and Joshua Kimmich, among others. However, the team's midfield maestro, Toni Kroos, will be the one to watch. He is a world-class player who can dictate the pace of the game and create chances for his teammates. German coach Joachim L?w will be hoping to go out on a high note, as he has announced that he will step down as manager after this tournament.

Conclusion

The Euro is one of the most exciting soccer tournaments in the world, and this year's edition promises to be no different. These are just a few of the many strong teams competing, and there are sure to be surprises along the way. Whether it's France, England, Spain, Italy, Germany, or another team lifting the trophy in the end, the Euro is sure to provide fans with plenty of memorable moments and thrilling matches.