Who are the favourites for Euro 2024?

With Euro 2024 fast approaching, the participating countries are gradually getting ready to try and be the one to lift the cup on 14 June.

Now that the group stage draw has been made, it's time to take a look at the favourites.

One of the favourites for this tournament is none other than last edition's winners, Italy. After a decade of disappointment, they are back in the limelight.

Despite failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, the Italians have a fine generation of players, capable of making a difference at European level.

Luciano Spalletti, Italy's manager, will be up against a number of strong countries, but his side have a strong case, although they are not the overwhelming favourites to win it.

Spain also have a strong case for winning Euro 2024. Despite losing to Morocco at the World Cup, La Roja has been getting back into the swing of things.

After a golden era in the early 2010s, with two Euros and a World Cup win, Spain has since suffered a series of disappointments.

But with a generation of European stars (Rodri, Laporte, Carvajal, etc.) and some very talented youngsters (Gavi, Pedri, Fati, etc.), Spain could well lift the cup in July.

England are another major title contender. Although the Three Lions often disappoint despite having a fine squad, their run to the final in 2021 seems to have reversed the trend.

What's more, every year, England seems to produce new talents, each one stronger than the last, showing great potential for the next big tournament.

Among the English stars are Harry Kane, who has been incredible since joining Bayern Munich, Jude Bellingham, the savior of Real Madrid's start to the season, and Bukayo Saka, who is in fine form with Arsenal.

Portugal are another team to keep a close eye on. After winning Euro 2016, Cristiano Ronaldo's team are keen to add another title to their trophy cabinet.

The Portuguese have strengthened their squad quite a bit in recent years, with the likes of Joao Félix, Vitinha and Rafael Leao.

Portugal's greatest star, five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo, is hoping to earn his side a new trophy, as well as adding to his own list of honours.

However, the biggest favourites remain the French. For several years now, Didier Deschamps' team has been enjoying one of the best periods in the history of French sport.

After reaching the final of Euro 2016, winning the 2018 World Cup and reaching the final in 2022, France have demonstrated great qualities that would enable them to win this tournament.

In 2021, however, France were eliminated in the round of 16 after a disappointing loss to Switzerland, leaving a bitter taste in the mouth for Les Bleus, who will be keen to bounce back, especially after the 2022 World Cup.