Top Players to Watch in the UEFA Nations League: Lalas' Rankings

The UEFA Nations League is back in full swing, with the group stage wrapping up as we approach 2027. Among the players making headlines are Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, and Marc Cucurella, each bringing unique talents to their national teams. As the competition heats up, here are ten players to keep an eye on, showcasing elite goalscorers, midfield maestros, and even a long-haired defender.

Starting with Cucurella, the Spanish left-back has made a significant impact since his summer move to Chelsea and subsequent transfer to Real Madrid. Despite a rocky start for the club in La Liga, Cucurella's adaptability and skill have shone through, proving why he is considered one of the best in his position. Alexi Lalas humorously notes, "You’ve got to have someone with long hair, right? I have not always loved him, but he’s growing on me. Like a fungus, he’s growing on me."

Declan Rice has also been a standout performer, serving as the engine for both England and Arsenal. His consistency has kept him in the conversation for Premier League Player of the Year, leading the league in assists. Lalas emphasizes Rice's crucial role, stating, "While he doesn’t always get the attention, the man is a machine when it comes to what he does in that midfield and what he does on set pieces."

Aurelien Tchouaméni, although hampered by injuries, remains a key figure in José Mourinho's system at Real Madrid. His contributions often go unnoticed on the stat sheet, but Lalas highlights his importance, saying, "Tchouaméni does so much great work that doesn’t necessarily show up on the stat sheet, but it’s huge."

Jude Bellingham has emerged as a top-class midfielder, scoring and assisting while also playing a vital defensive role for Real Madrid. Following his World Cup performance, he has solidified his status as one of England's brightest stars. Lalas acknowledges Bellingham's talent, stating, "I could definitely push him up higher, but I’m going to put him at No. 7."

Erling Haaland continues to dominate the Premier League, leading the goalscoring charts despite Manchester City's tumultuous season. His scoring prowess is crucial for Norway as they navigate the Nations League. Lalas quips, "He’s worth the price of admission. His hair was flowing! It’s starting to grow out, but the man still scores goals. You’ve just got to see him."

Rising stars shaping Portugal's future

Vitinha has been instrumental for PSG and Portugal, especially in the wake of Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement. Lalas notes the potential for a rejuvenated Portugal team, saying, "Maybe they are unburdened, maybe they aren’t – but if they are, whether it’s Vitinha or anybody else out there, I’ve got to think we’re going to see the best version of them."

Despite not scoring at the World Cup, Bayern Munich's star has proven his value through assists and pivotal plays. Lalas praises his impact, stating, "The guy is just blown up and rightfully so. Every time he touches the ball, he seems to do something magical."

At just 19 years old, Lamine Yamal is already making waves in La Liga, leading in assists and goals. His ability to create plays and score makes him a player to watch, with Lalas commenting on his unique skill set, "It’s not just his ability to beat players, it’s not just his ability to score goals. He also has this playmaker type of characteristic that is just a whole other skill set that he brings."

When the Noise Dies Down

Kylian Mbappé, now the World Cup's all-time leading scorer, is on a quest to solidify his legacy with Real Madrid. His performance in La Liga continues to impress, and Lalas ranks him at No. 2, emphasizing his drive for major silverware. Finally, Harry Kane, fresh off a new deal with Bayern Munich and a Ballon d'Or win, rounds out the list. Lalas notes, "The Englishman. The winner of the Ballon d’Or. We’ll see if it’s a burden — a poison chalice, if you will — but I don’t think so. Harry Kane adapts to anything on and off the field.",

As the UEFA Nations League progresses, these players will undoubtedly play pivotal roles for their teams, showcasing their skills on the international stage. Keep an eye on their performances as they aim for glory in the upcoming matches.