Rising Stars to Watch at Paris 2024 Olympic Football

As the excitement of Euro 2024 and Copa America winds down, the focus shifts to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where both men's and women's football promises thrilling action. Here are ten players to keep an eye on:

1. Julian Alvarez (Argentina): Fresh off a Copa America victory, Alvarez, a Manchester City forward, is one of Argentina's key overage players. With 11 goals in 36 appearances for City last season, he aims to lead Argentina to their third Olympic gold.

2. Marta (Brazil): The legendary Brazilian forward, with 118 goals in 183 international games, is set to retire after Paris. Having previously won silver medals in Athens and Beijing, Marta is determined to clinch gold in her final international outing.

3. Alexandre Lacazette (France): Selected by Thierry Henry to captain the host nation, Lacazette, who scored 22 goals for Lyon last season, brings experience and ambition to the French squad.

4. Aitana Bonmati (Spain): The reigning Women's Ballon d'Or winner, Bonmati, has had a stellar season with Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Spain, making their Olympic debut, hope to add gold to their World Cup and Nations League titles.

5. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco): The PSG defender, known for his World Cup heroics, will lead Morocco, who qualified by winning the U23 Africa Cup of Nations. Hakimi's leadership will be pivotal for the Atlas Lions.

6. Wendie Renard (France): Captain of the French women's team, Renard is a seasoned defender with 160 caps. Her leadership and defensive prowess will be crucial as France aims for a podium finish.

7. Fermin Lopez (Spain): The young Barcelona winger, part of Spain's Euro 2024-winning squad, aims to make history by winning both the Euros and Olympic gold in the same summer.

8. Linda Caicedo (Colombia): At just 19, Caicedo is already a standout player for Real Madrid. Her performance in the 2023 World Cup showcased her talent, making her a key player for Colombia.

9. Naby Keita (Guinea): The former Liverpool midfielder will captain Guinea in their second Olympic appearance. Despite a challenging season in the Bundesliga, Keita's experience is invaluable for his national team.

10. Barbra Banda (Zambia): The prolific forward, who became the second-most expensive women's footballer in history, will lead Zambia in her second Olympics. Banda's scoring ability makes her a player to watch.

As the Olympic football tournament kicks off, these players are set to light up the stage with their talent and determination.