The Copa America is almost upon us. This year’s competition promises to be one of the best with teams from the CONCACAF region participating. The Euros is also running alongside the competition, so fans like myself are spoiled for choice.
What makes this Copa America special is that we will see the last of many players and the birth of others. This might be James Rodriguez’s last, same with Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria. We will also see Endrick and Kendry Paez play their first tournament and hopefully rise. Before the competition begins, here are five players you should watch.
5 Players to Watch Out For in The Copa America
Kendry Paez
This Chelsea-bound superstar is more talented than the likes of Endrick and Estevao but doesn’t get as much attention. He is an attacking midfielder with the carrying ability of Kaka and the dribbling of Lionel Messi. He also has godlike levels of Pausa that rival the likes of KDB and Mesut Ozil. I believe this Copa America will be Kendry Paez’s introduction to the world before he goes to Chelsea next year.
Vinicius Jr.
Vinicius Jr. is the man of the year. The Brazilian is among the favorites to win the Ballon d’Or and has had a Champions League season for the history books. If Vini wins the Copa America, the next Ballon d’Or is his. He will also do what Neymar could never do. Moreover, Vinicius has a knack for scoring in big games as he has been doing in Real Madrid.
If Brazil reaches the knockout stages of the competition, you can expect Vini to come out big for his national team. With the help of his talented teammates, Brazil is a force to be reckoned with and Vini is the spearhead of the attack.
Endrick
Endrick might not be like Archetypal Brazilian in terms of showboating, but he is the next big thing. Blessed with blistering pace and physicality reminiscent of Prime Adriano, the teenager is a unicorn in terms of player profile. The young Brazilian has been clutch in each international game and the Copa America will be a nice place for him to show that ability.
Savio
Not many players in Europe had as many dribbles as Savio. The young Brazilian has been electric for Girona and was the driving force behind their Champions League qualification. This Copa America will be Savio’s first international tournament and hopefully, he might win.
Rodrygo Goes
Rodrygo is a phenomenal talent, a unique player profile that football has never seen. He is a winger with the intelligence of Thomas Muller, the pace of Robinho, and the clutch ability of Cristiano Ronaldo. While the young Brazilian is yet to shine on the International front, I believe this year’s Copa America might be his time.
Alongside Vinicius in Real Madrid, Rodrygo has been part of many championship wins. From La Liga to Champions League, this player has delivered for his Spanish club. It is now time for him to shine for his National team and lead the team to victory.
About the Author
Sidu Arah is a writer who spends most of his days playing football, reading manga, watching art films, and playing games. If he is not screaming at Ten Hag for playing Lisandro Martinez through injury, he is crying his eyes out while reading a new Manga. Sidu is also an amateur scientist with a knack for trying out new technology. You can follow Sidu on X @Aldobormann
