We saw a number of brilliant rookies strut their stuff in Portugal for Euro 2004, and a number of these players are now some of the best to look at for football collectors of any kind!
Remembering Euro 2004
My first ever World Cup was 2006, and I’d love to say I remember Euro 2004 just as well.
But in reality, a lot of my knowledge of this tournament is done after the fact, especially since I started collecting football memorabilia and started searching for good ‘rookie’ cards to try and find.
Having looked back, it’s since emerged that Euro 2004 is one of the best international tournaments in terms of finding rookie cards and/or young editions of future legends. So, in this article for Hobby FC, I decided to highlight some of the best to spawn from this time.
These emerging stars captivated the world with their performances and laid the foundation for illustrious careers on the world stage. So let’s stop waffling, and let’s take a look at five young players who turned out to be future world-beaters after their breakthrough in Euro 2004.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
At just 19 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo was one of the youngest players in the tournament. And ironically, wasn’t even considered to be the reason Portugal might progress far that year.
With players like Deco and Luis Figo expected to take a more hands-on role than him.
Despite his youth, he played a crucial role in Portugal’s journey to the Final on home soil. His dazzling dribbling, electrifying pace, and ability to score goals marked him as a standout talent.
Ronaldo’s performances in Euro 2004 foreshadowed a glittering career that would see him become one of the greatest footballers of all time, winning multiple Ballon d’Or awards and setting numerous records with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.
20 years on from his European debut, the man is still going!
Wayne Rooney (England)
Wayne Rooney was only 18 when he lit up Euro 2004 with his remarkable performances.
The young striker scored four goals in the tournament, showcasing his powerful shot, technical ability, and maturity beyond his years. And a physicality which bemused every defender he faced.
Namely, France’s Lilian Thuram…
Who’d been quite vocal about ‘not knowing much’ about Wayne Rooney, nor what he’d bring to England and if he was ready. Well, after a set-to with the fresh Lion in Portugal, I doubt that Lilian ever made that mistake again. As well portrayed in a new BBC documentary to that effect titled ‘Rooney at Euro 2004‘ – which tells you everything you need to know about his showing at this tournament.
This propelled him into the spotlight, leading to a storied career with Manchester United, where he became the club’s all-time leading scorer, and earning legendary status with the England national team – becoming their top goalscorer before Harry Kane arrived onto the scene.
Arjen Robben (Netherlands)
Arjen Robben was another young star who made a significant impact during Euro 2004. At 20 years old, Robben’s pace and skill on the wing were crucial for the Netherlands.
His standout moment came in the quarterfinals against Sweden, where he scored the decisive penalty in the shootout. That left boot he used would be the stuff of legend later in his career
Robben’s career flourished after the tournament, with successful stints at Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, where he became known for his iconic left-footed shots and incredible dribbling ability. Some still call that ‘cutting in from the right’ trademark the ‘Arjen Robben move’.
I am one of those people.
Petr Čech (Czech Republic)
Petr Čech was 22 years old during Euro 2004 and was already establishing himself as a top goalkeeper. His performances were instrumental in the Czech Republic’s run to the semifinals.
Which nobody really expected them to do, even with Pavel Nedved at the peak of his powers.
Čech’s shot-stopping ability, command of the penalty area, and composure under pressure were evident throughout the tournament. All key attributes you’d need in the cauldron of national ball.
Following Euro 2004, Čech moved to Chelsea, where he became one of the Premier League’s greatest goalkeepers, winning multiple league titles and the Champions League. Let’s ignore the Arsenal move…
Xabi Alonso (Spain)
At 22, Xabi Alonso was part of the Spanish squad that underperformed in Euro 2004, failing to progress beyond the group stage – hence why people forget a lot about his breakthrough here.
However, Alonso’s quality was undeniable.
His vision, passing range, and composure on the ball hinted at his future potential. Alonso’s career blossomed after the tournament, with successful spells at Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich. He became a key figure in Spain’s dominance of international football, winning two European Championships and a World Cup.
Now, with his incredible success as a manager with Bayer Leverkusen, now might be a better time than ever to search for some Alonso pieces while his name attracts fan bases all over.
Conclusion
Euro 2004 was a tournament rich in emerging talent, with several young players using it as a springboard to greatness. Ronaldo, Rooney, Robben, Čech, and Alonso each showcased their abilities on the European stage, setting the tone for their remarkable careers.
These players not only became stars for their clubs but also left an unshakable mark on international football, cementing their places in the hearts of every fan who showed up to adore them.
A special mention must also go out to the top scorer of the tournament – Czech Republic’s Milan Baros, who would go on to feature in the ‘Miracle of Istanbul’ Champions League Final as a Liverpool player in 2005, before struggling to find his feet at the higher ebbs of club football. But if we’re talking purely about a player’s impact at Euro 2004, I didn’t feel right not speaking about him.
Which of these future Euro 2004 stars have you collected?