UEFA Considers Squad Size Increase for Euro 2024
UEFA is set to discuss the possibility of expanding squads for Euro 2024 during an upcoming meeting. Several coaches have advocated for allowing teams to bring 26 players to Germany instead of the current limit of 23. This proposal comes in response to the challenges faced by national teams, including England, dealing with injuries.
Workshop with Participating Teams
UEFA released a statement acknowledging the feedback from national team coaches regarding squad sizes for Euro 2024. A workshop involving the participating teams is scheduled for April 8th, where UEFA will consider the opinions of the coaches and evaluate any proposed changes.
Kyle Walker’s recent injury during the match against Brazil highlights the impact of injuries on national teams.
Potential Squad Expansion
Since the 2018 World Cup, national team managers have been required to select a 23-man squad for major tournaments. However, due to the effects of the pandemic, the squad size was temporarily increased to 26 for this summer’s finals.
England manager Gareth Southgate expressed openness to the idea of expanding the squad size further, indicating that discussions among coaches have raised the possibility of a larger selection. Southgate emphasized the importance of making informed decisions, particularly regarding player fitness and medical considerations.
Southgate’s past experience with expanded selections allowed him to strategically manage player fitness, as seen with players like Harry Maguire, Jordan Henderson, Kyle Walker, and Kalvin Phillips in previous tournaments. The potential increase to a 26-man squad for Euro 2024 could provide opportunities for players like Luke Shaw and Reece James, who may benefit from the expanded roster.
