Copa America 2021: 10 players to watch out for

Copa America has always been a tournament to look up to. The South American competition which is the oldest in history starts on June 13. The superstars from around the world will join their respective national teams in order to lift the trophy. Let us look at 10 players who could impress in the Copa America 2021 this summer.

10 players to keep an eye on in Copa America 2021:

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Messi has always been the talk of the town. The magician on the pitch had a hard time while playing for his national team. Frequently criticized for his performance for the National team and not having an international trophy in his cabinet, Messi has a chance to put this all to an end this season. After losing back to back finals in 2015 and 2016 against Chile where he missed the ever crucial penalty, Messi had a lot on his plate. After a semi-final exit in 2019 they hope to win the competition this year. Leo had a great season individually as always with 39 goal involvements this season. This is probably the last chance for Messi to win the Copa and he will give his best to bring it home for the blues.

Also Read: Players With the Most Assists In Football History

2. Neymar (Brazil)

The most expensive player in history is Brazil's main man in this competition. Neymar will shoulder Brazil's hopes of defending the title they won in 2019. Although he had a disappointing season with PSG, the Brazilian remains a threat for the opponents. His individual skills are incomparable, he creates chances out of nothing for the team and is also a prolific goal scorer at the same time. Brazil will heavily count on the superstar but injury has always been a scare for him.

3. Federico Valverde (Uruguay)

There are many superstars in the Uruguayan national team but this youngster has impressed everyone with his commitment to the team. The 22-year-old midfielder had a huge impact on the Laliga but was injured in the latter part of the season, which also cost Real Madrid the Laliga. The Uruguayan sensation quickly made himself a name in an enormous club like Real Madrid. He is definitely one of the talents to watch for this season.

Also read: Copa America 2021: Schedule, fixture, timings, everything you need to know

4. Duván Zapata (Colombia)

The 30 year old is a successful striker in the Italian Top Flight for Atalanta. The Atalanta team has achieved great heights in the recent times both in the UCL and the league. He netted 15 goals in 37 league appearances last season. He is also the most expensive player in the Colombian squad with a market value of $41.80 million.

5. Renato Tapia (Peru)

The 25-year-old centre back has build his career in Europe. He played in the Eridivisie most of his career and recently joined Celta Vigo in a free transfer. Tapia is a key piece at the Peruvian national team's defense. He already has played 53 games with Peru, and is a trusted defender just at the age of 25.

6. Miguel Almirón (Paraguay)

The Paraguayan has grown and earned his experience in MLS. Then he moved to the Premier League where he established himself at Newcastle Utd. The promising youngster is also Paraguay's most expensive player valued at $17.60 million.

Also read: Copa America winners list of the last 10 editions

7. Josef Martínez (Venezuela)

Injury has ruined almost two years of his career. The Venezuelan striker has missed over a year of action due to a torn ACL. He has an incredible impact on the MLS for Atlanta United. Josef led the title-winning run with Atlanta United in 2018 by scoring 31 goals earning him the MVP award. He already has 12 goals in 54 appearances with Venezuela's senior team and is one of the crucial players to watch out for in Copa America 2021.

8. Pervis Estupiñan (Ecuador)

Ecuador's exciting left-back has fought hard to earn a place in one of Europe's top five leagues after several loan moves from Watford. The Europa League champions Villarreal C.F bought him from Osasuna for $18 million ahead of the 2020/21 season. Although Estupiñán couldn't make it to the starting lineup, he has a bright future ahead of him.

9. Ben Brereton (Chile)

Chile won back-to-back Copa America in 2015 and 2016 defeating Argentina in the shoot-outs. Along side veteran forward Alexis Sanchez, Chile have handed a shock call-up to Blackburn Rovers striker Brereton. Although he has played for England at under-19 level, he could be a Chilean star in the near future. The 22-year-old has scored seven goals and provided five assists for Rovers in the championship.

10. Erwin Saavedra (Bolivia)

The right midfielder from Bolivia is a player to watch out for in this tournament. The 25-year-old has already scored 14 goals and 11 assists in 72 appearances with the local giants. He has also earned 18 caps with the national team. He is also the highest valued player in the Bolivia squad with a market value of $1.21 million.

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