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The Euro 2020 has been a phenomenal spectacle thus far, a competition that will long be remembered for the quality of games it has produced.
Two favourites, Portugal and France, have already been knocked out. Their elimination has seen some of the best players in the game take a bow from Euro 2020. So it will be interesting to see which team stands tallest at the end of the tournament.
With the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe no longer in the competition, the Player of the Tournament award is now much more open. Some big names still remain in the tournament, but it would not be a surprise to see a less known player take the award home.
On that note, let's have a look at the five favourites for the Player of the Tournament award at Euro 2020.
#5 Raheem Sterling (England)
After a quiet 2020-21 season with Manchester City, questions were raised about whether Raheem Sterling should start for England at Euro 2020.
The forward has answered his critics in stunning fashion, though. Sterling has scored three of England's four goals at Euro 2020 so far, including winners against Croatia and the Czech Republic. The 26-year old has looked confident and assured and has comfortably been England's best attacker in the tournament.
Sterling has often been unfairly criticised by the media. But there is no denying that the former Liverpool man will be key if Gareth Southgate's men are to go all the way at Euro 2020.
Also Read: Fabrizio Romano's Transfer Roundup: Lionel Messi makes decision on Barcelona future; Manchester United make €85 million bid for Sancho, and more.
#4 Thorgan Hazard (Belgium)
Few would have guessed that Thorgan Hazard would be a more key contributor for Belgium at Euro 2020 than his more illustrious brother Eden.
Since joining Borussia Dortmund in 2019 from Borussia Monchengladbach, Thorgan Hazard's performances have not been incredible. In fact, he made just eight starts in the Bundesliga last season, making minimal impact.
An attacker at club level, it was surprising to see Belgium manager Roberto Martinez start the 28-year old as a left wing-back at Euro 2020.
Hazard has been one of Belgium's best performers so far. He has scored two goals in three starts at the competition, including the winner against Portugal in the Round of 16. His runs and ability on the ball have been good to watch.
If Borussia Dortmund see him as a squad player for next season, it will make sense for Hazard to leave for a club where he would be a consistent starter.
Also Read: Euro 2020: 5 young players who could become household names after the tournament.
#3 Leonardo Spinazzola (Italy)
Not many would have predicted that Leonardo Spinazzola would have the impact that he has had for Italy at Euro 2020 thus far.
The AS Roma man has arguably been the best left-back in the tournament so far. Spinazzola is a unique player, a right-footed left-back who makes excellent runs and almost always provides an outlet on the wings. The 28-year old has impressed with his energy and attacking prowess in the tournament.
Spinazzola has made three appearances at Euro 2020, providing an assist. The former Atalanta player has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, but new Roma manager Jose Mourinho could look to keep him.
#2 Pedri (Spain)
At 18, Pedri is a starter for one of the biggest clubs in the world as well for his country. He is now dominating discussions on the back of some stellar displays at Euro 2020.
Spain manager Luis Enrique has an incredible assortment of midfield options to choose from. However, it was Pedri who Enrique started with in the first game against Sweden ahead of the likes of Thiago and Fabian Ruiz, and the youngster has justified his selection.
Highly technical and a good passer, Pedri has proved to be one of the best players at Euro 2020 so far. He was a regular starter for Barcelona during the 2020-21 season, and it is likely that he will be in the first XI in Spain's quarter-final against Switzerland.
#1 Romelu Lukaku (Belgium)
It can be argued that Romelu Lukaku, on current form, is the best striker in the game.
Premier League fans may still remember his mixed spell with Manchester United, but at Inter Milan, the Belgian has found another level. Under Antonio Conte. Lukaku has flourished, leading his side to Serie A success last season.
The 28-year-old has carried that form to Euro 2020. Physically gifted and highly intelligent, Lukaku has all the tools a modern striker requires. He has made four appearances so far at Euro 2020 and has scored three goals.
Also Read: 5 France players who flopped at Euro 2020.
