There have been some surprising omissions from the international rosters ahead of Copa America and Euros this summer. Let’s look at the five most puzzling absences from the tournaments.
Manuel Locatelli – Italy
Italy manager Luciano Spalletti is not cutting corners. His 30 pre-call-ups for Euro 2024 exclude Juventus defensive midfielder Manuel Locatelli. The 26-year-old enjoyed a decent season under Allegri but was shaken after the roster news.
His cryptic Instagram post of a black screen suggests major disappointment about Spalletti’s decision.
Paulo Dybala – Argentina
Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni made the contentious call to leave World Cup champion Paulo Dybala at home for Copa America. The Argentine midfielder nicknamed “La Joya” had another stellar season for AS Roma, netting 16 and assisting 10.
Scaloni is keen to hand teenage starlet Alejandro Garnacho an opportunity to add to La Albiceleste’s attack instead. Sorry, Paulo.
Marcus Rashford – England
How quickly the tables turn. After an exceptional 30-goal haul performance last season, this 23/24 term has been less kind to Marcus Rashford. His eight goals in 42 matches have come under scrutiny, culminating in confronting a heckling fan pre-match at Old Trafford against Newcastle.
But Rashford can make peace with his Euros exclusion by going all out this Saturday against Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
“That is the career, ups and downs, so a down can also be fuel, that is what I see in training. He will be highly motivated, he is highly talented. He has already a big career. I am sure he will get over this and get even more goals,” said Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag.
Matheus Cunha – Brazil
Brazil’s provisional list for Copa America 2024 excludes Wolverhampton forward Matheus Cunha. The 24-year-old thrived in the Premier League this season, scoring a dozen and assisting 7. Some say he’s the new Bobby Firmino, but he’ll have to wait a bit to get another opportunity on the international stage. Notable absentees for the Selecao also include Gabriel Jesus, Antony, and Casemiro.
Erling Haaland – Norway
And last but not least, Erling Haaland. The 23-year-old makes the cut on any squad, yet he and Arsenal’s Odeggard failed to propel Norway into the Euros. Norway also has the top scorer from La Liga in Alexander Sørloth. Shame we won’t see any of these notable omissions in Germany this summer.
