With the group stage done and dusted, eight out of the 24 teams that initially came into the competition will be heading home as we’re set to move into the Round of 16 which will see Europe’s biggest names go up against each other.
The European Championship has certainly proven to be an emphatic spectacle, but it’s had its ups and downs in the form of abysmal performances from some big name players who were expected to light up the stage in an exquisite manner.
It’s been quite intriguing to see how the world-class players adapt to playing alongside their international teammates who may be lacking the quality that is present in abundance at club level.
Quite a number of underperformers still have a clear-cut chance to redeem their below-par Euro 2016 showings once the knockout stage begins, but some players aren’t lucky enough to have that luxury as their sides have already faced elimination from the group stage.
The likes of Luka Modric, Ivan Persic, Alvaro Morata and Gareth Bale, who were dubbed as key players going into the competition have duly delivered for their nations, so without further ado let’s have a look at top five underperformers in Euro 2016 so far;
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
After being serenaded by a myriad of clubs following the conclusion of the 2015/16 season, the Sweden International looks set for a move to Manchester United ahead of news Premier League campaign which begins with a highly-anticipated opening day clash against Bournemouth.
Before the club season starts, Ibra was expected by many to provide a glimpse of what he can actually bring to Old Trafford but judging by the performances he has given at the Euros; it’s fair to say that the goal-machine is not in his best form.
Zlatan’s performances have gotten a lot of Manchester United fans worried over Ibrahimovic eventually becoming of football’s top-rated flops due to the age and performance factor.
Having failed to hit the back of the net for Sweden in three appearances, an aura of uncertainty now looms over Ibrahimovic’s imminent career at Manchester United and with that said, the pressure to succeed will be even more overbearing.
