UEFA Women's Euro 2025: Ten Superstars Set to Dominate the Tournament
As the newest installment of the Women's European Championship begins, Switzerland becomes the focal point for one of the most prestigious tournaments in women's football.
Four years prior, England's Beth Mead claimed the tournament's top player honor while sharing the Golden Boot distinction with Alex Popp, both netting six goals as the Lionesses secured the championship. This year's competition promises equally impressive talent. Here are 10 standout athletes to watch this July.
Leah Williamson (England)
Following her role as captain during England's successful Euro 2022 campaign, Leah Williamson was sidelined from the 2023 Women's World Cup due to an ACL tear. The Arsenal defender has bounced back with an outstanding 2024–25 campaign, helping the Gunners capture the UEFA Women's Champions League title. At 28, she's returned to peak form and prepared to excel. Her captaincy will be crucial for England's success.
Delphine Cascarino (France)
Presently displaying exceptional form with San Diego Wave in the National Women's Soccer League, this skillful French wing player ranks among the most thrilling athletes to observe as she moves gracefully on the field. She netted once during Women's Euro 2022 and contributed to France's historic first semifinal appearance. The 28-year-old aims to surpass that achievement this tournament.
Giulia Gwinn (Germany)
Following Popp's retirement, Germany's coach Christian Wück appointed Giulia Gwinn as the squad's new leader. At merely 25, this appointment demonstrates tremendous confidence in the defender's leadership abilities as she guides the European powerhouse that finished second in the last Euros. Gwinn excels in distribution and crossing when in possession.
Daphne van Domselaar (Netherlands)
The Dutch goalkeeper entered Euro 2022 as the second-choice keeper, but following Sari van Veenendaal's injury, Daphne van Domselaar stepped up during the competition. The 25-year-old has maintained her position and is now recognized as among Europe's finest goalkeepers. Her timely interventions can be match-defining.
Ewa Pajor (Poland)
Poland makes its debut appearance at the Women's Euro, and any hopes of creating surprises and advancing from the group phase rest heavily on star forward Ewa Pajor. The 28-year-old netted 43 times in 45 appearances across all competitions for FC Barcelona last season, establishing herself as one of Europe's premier strikers.
Caroline Graham Hansen (Norway)
Norway has failed to meet expectations in recent competitions, as has Caroline Graham Hansen, who managed only one goal across 12 Women's Euro appearances between 2013 and 2022. The 30-year-old Barcelona wing player ranks among the finest ever in her position. She excels at bewildering defenders with her movement.
Sveindís Jane Jónsdóttir (Iceland)
Following her recent move from Wolfsburg to Angel City in the NWSL, Sveindís Jane Jónsdóttir represents the attacking threat in an Iceland squad that emphasizes defensive stability and counter-attacking football. Iceland remained unbeaten at Euro 2022 but drew all three matches, preventing quarterfinal qualification. The 24-year-old is expected to emerge as a breakthrough performer. She continues seeking her inaugural international tournament goal.
Stina Blackstenius (Sweden)
Regarding current performance, Stina Blackstenius stands out prominently. The experienced Swedish striker achieved legendary status among Arsenal supporters by scoring the decisive goal in the Champions League final against Barcelona. She also recorded a hat-trick for Sweden in their 6–1 victory over Denmark in June. With nine goals in her previous 14 Sweden appearances, she'll spearhead the dark horse's attack.
Manuela Giugliano (Italy)
An overlooked creative midfielder with exceptional vision, Manuela Giugliano surveys the field to deliver penetrating passes and lifted balls to colleagues, unlocking defensive structures. The 27-year-old completed her finest individual campaign with AS Roma, recording 12 goals and five assists. Should Italy aim to escape the group stage for the first time since 2013, Giugliano's contribution will be vital.
Clàudia Pina (Spain)
Another emerging young talent, it remains uncertain whether forward Clàudia Pina will start for Spain or serve as the primary substitute. The 23-year-old's appearances have proven devastating for opponents, including England, who fell 2–1 to Spain in June with Pina scoring both goals as a substitute. Possessing excellent ball control, she's a dangerous shooter from various positions around the penalty area.