Euro 2016 will see some of world football’s greatest stars assemble to chase glory. Competing for your country is the pinnacle of football, and we can expect the cream of the crop to make their mark in France.

Who will the standout performers of the tournament be? To answer that, we have assembled a Euro 2016 dream team, the 11 players set to shine this summer.

Formation: 4-3-3

Goalkeeper:

Manuel Neuer (Germany & Bayern Munich)

Neuer is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time. Acting as a sweeper keeper, he allows Germany to play their high pressing game. He also possesses lightning quick reflexes.

The Bayern Munich man has 60 caps to his name, and his heroics in goal helped Germany become world champions two years ago. He will be looking to add a European crown to his tally.

Defenders:

David Alaba (Austria & Bayern Munich)

Alaba is the youngest player ever to represent Austria, making his debut at the tender age of 17. He is versatile, with the ability to play in a number of positions, but generally operates as a left back for his nation.

He is a classy attacking-minded defender, with a keen eye for goal. In fact, he finished as Austria’s top scorer in qualification with 6 goals.

Toby Alderweireld (Belgium & Tottenham)

The central defender has been a rock at the back for Tottenham this season, helping them achieve their best ever Premier League finish.

Alderweireld has over 50 caps for his country, and will be vital to Belgium’s Euro 2016 hopes. Can he help the ‘golden generation’ capture Europe’s greatest prize?

Matt Hummels (Germany & Bayern Munich)

Hummels recently completed a controversial transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich for a reported fee of €35 million. It is easy to see why Bayern wanted him. He is considered one of the finest ball playing centre backs in the world.

With an average pass completion rate of 87% this season, he has the ability to trigger swift attacking moves from the back.

Juanfran (Spain & Atlético Madrid)

Juanfran has been in fine form with Atlético this season. The right back possesses power, pace and accurate crosses. He poses a definite threat going forward and is also defensively dependable.

At the age of 31, this may be his last major tournament. He will be looking to go out with a bang.

Midfielders:

Paul Pogba (France & Juventus)

Pogba is the ultimate all-round central midfielder. He is energetic and industrious, but also a lethal playmaker with a penchant for scoring spectacular goals. His 10 goals and 14 assists for Juventus this season is a testament to this.

The 23-year-old will be the heartbeat of the French team. This is his opportunity to cement his reputation as one of the greats of the current game.

Mesut Özil (Germany & Arsenal)

Ozil is arguably the worlds most gifted playmaker. With excellent vision and technical ability, he is able to execute the ‘impossible’ defence-splitting pass. Premier League fans will know this well. His 19 assists this season for Arsenal is only one sort of the league record.

Ozil is something of a veteran of this German side, and was instrumental in their World Cup victory two years ago.

Dele Alli (England & Tottenham)

Alli is the only English player in our selection. The twenty-year-old has had his breakout season at Tottenham, scoring 10 goals and creating 11 assists on his way to becoming PFA Young Player of the Year.

His performances have thrust him into the heart of England’s Euro 2016 plans. He is set to announce himself on the international stage and become one of the young stars of the tournament.

Forwards:

Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal & Real Madrid)

Ronaldo has already claimed his place amongst the greatest of all time. With an astonishing return of 260 goals in 230 appearances for Real Madrid, it’s no wonder he is one of the favourites to become tournament top scorer.

Ronaldo is the lynchpin of the Portuguese team. In past tournaments, he has been let down by the lack of quality around him. Nevertheless, Ronaldo is capable of winning matches virtually singlehandedly.

Robert Lewandowski (Poland & Bayern Munich)

Lewandowski knows how to score goals. He has found the net 44 times in 49 appearances for his club this season. With pace, strength, and deadly finishing, he is the most feared striker in Europe.

Lewandowski is no less lethal for his nation. He currently has a record of just under a goal every other game for Poland.

Gareth Bale (Wales & Real Madrid)

Bale is the talisman of Welsh football. He has played no small part in taking them to their first major tournament since 1958. Gifted with skill, strength and blistering pace, he has the ability tear through even the most sturdy defences.

Wales will also be encouraged by Bale’s recent form for Real Madrid. Long in Ronaldo’s shadow, he has really come into his own this season. His 20 goals and 11 assists have made him a vital element of Zidane’s side.

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