FIFA has published all the player lists for the Olympic teams. Names like Gerónimo Rulli, Alexandre Lacazette, and Achraf Hakimi will soon make their appearance in France. The tournament begins on July 24 with two matches: Argentina vs. Morocco and Uzbekistan vs. Spain.
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Countries are allowed to select only players under 23 years old for the Olympic Games, but three over-age players are permitted.
Several countries are taking full advantage of this rule. For instance, Ajax goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli is actually too old, as is 36-year-old Nicolás Otamendi. The Argentine defender will be the oldest player at the Games. Otamendi, like Rulli, is a reigning world champion, and Julián Álvarez will also be present.
Several players from Dutch clubs have also received invitations to the global tournament in the French capital. Rulli was already mentioned, although he is registered on FIFA's player list as a Villarreal player. Francisco Reyes (Dominican Republic, FC Volendam), Hussein Ali (Iraq, SC Heerenveen), Blnd Hassan (Iraq, De Graafschap), Shunsuke Mito (Japan, Sparta Rotterdam), Kodai Sano (Japan, NEC), Matthew Garbett (New Zealand, NAC Breda), Taylor Booth, and Paxten Aaronson (United States, FC Utrecht) are the Eredivisie representatives in Paris.
The Spanish Olympic team appears to have the most talent at first glance. Juan Miranda, Pau Cubarsi, Abel Ruiz, Alex Baena, Fermín López, and Sergio Gómez are some of the names that have been called up and given permission by their clubs to travel to France. Spain's squad reflects a blend of youth and experience, aiming to secure a gold medal.
The host nation, France, has included Alexandre Lacazette in the squad and can pair him up front with Jean-Philippe Mateta. Michael Olise, recently sold to Bayern Munich for 53 million euros, has also been given permission to participate in the Games. This French team will leverage their home advantage, with matches not only in Paris but also in six other cities, hoping to captivate local fans.
In addition to the big names on the field, there are also well-known figures on the sidelines during the men's tournament. Javier Mascherano, a football legend, is the coach of the Argentine team, bringing his extensive experience to the role. Thierry Henry, another iconic figure in football, is directing France, infusing the team with his strategic insights and leadership. Tarik Sektioui, who has a past with Willem II, AZ, and RKC Waalwijk, is the coach of Morocco. In the Moroccan squad, Oussama El Azzouzi, born in Veenendaal, will be looking to make an impact.
The Olympic football tournament is set to be a showcase of emerging talent and seasoned professionals, all vying for glory on one of the world's biggest stages. Fans can expect thrilling matches, dramatic moments, and a display of skill and passion as these teams compete for the coveted Olympic gold. With the diverse pool of talent and the inclusion of experienced over-age players, the competition promises to be one of the highlights of the sporting calendar.
