UEFA Considers Expanding Euro 2024 Squads to 26 Players
UEFA is contemplating enlarging squad sizes for the upcoming European Championship in Germany to 26 players after consulting with coaches.
Meetings with international managers whose teams had qualified for Euro 2024 were conducted in Düsseldorf on Monday.
“UEFA has acknowledged the various opinions and perspectives shared,” stated European football’s governing body.
“A final decision will be reached in the upcoming weeks.”
This matter was deliberated as part of a broader two-day workshop for finalists and now advances to UEFA’s national team competitions committee and then its executive committee.
Currently, squads are limited to 23 players, reverting to regulations used before Euro 2020. During that tournament, three additional players were permitted to counteract potential COVID outbreaks in the squad.
UEFA’s statement further noted: “The constructive discussions underscored differing viewpoints among coaches, with some advocating for an increase in squad size.
“Others expressed a preference to maintain the squad size at 23, citing challenges in training with additional players, team management, and the heightened financial burdens on national associations.”
Previously, England manager Gareth Southgate favoured 23-man squads but lately mentioned a preference for three extra players to handle a demanding end to the domestic season, which is “complicated” by players returning from long-term injuries.
England and Scotland have two friendlies at the beginning of June before the deadline to submit their final Euro squads to UEFA on June 7.
Euro 2024 kicks off on June 14, with Scotland facing hosts Germany in the opening match in Munich, while England commences against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on June 16.
The discussions reflect UEFA’s openness to adaptability, taking into account the varying perspectives and challenges faced by national teams.
Ultimately, the outcome will reflect UEFA’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to competitive excellence while addressing the evolving needs and challenges of modern football.
As the tournament approaches, teams will eagerly await the final decision, which will shape their preparations and strategies for Euro 2024.
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