Ranking the 10 best player of Copa America 2024
Copa America 2024 is not a playground of fancy moves or skillful performances. The matches are played at a tense and challenging pace, forcing even the most creative teams to fight hard to win. Although there were no real breakout stars, and some famous players were not at their best, a number of individuals and coaches left a clear mark on their teams’ success. From the excellent goalkeeper of the title contenders to the fiery full-back of the surprise finalist, the tournament has seen impressive performances. Join Premiumsoccertips to review the 10 best player of Copa America 2024.
Ranking the 10 best players of Copa America
10. Moise Bombito (↓2)
Canada, who made their first appearance at the Copa America, made history by reaching the semi-finals, marking their best performance at a major tournament. Under Jesse Marsch, Canada did not have any truly outstanding performances. They lost 0-2 to Argentina, narrowly won 1-0 against Peru with 10 men, drew 0-0 with Chile in a similar situation, overcame Venezuela on penalties, and then suffered another 0-2 loss to Argentina.
Despite this, the team was highly regarded for its tight organization and solid defense, especially showing its ability to compete against the reigning world champions twice. In the Canadian squad, Colorado Rapids centre-back Bombito has been a standout performer, with some excellent performances at the back.
In fact, we have a pretty clear picture of the leading contenders for the Player of the Tournament award. Although not in the running for the award, this 10th place is seen as a prestigious recognition for a player who has shown impressive performances. This also explains why many European clubs are showing interest in him.
9. Federico Valverde (↓4)
Real Madrid star Federico Valverde has just added another Champions League title to his impressive collection, continuing to assert his important role in world football. At the 2024 Copa America, he became the centerpiece of the Uruguayan team under Marcelo Bielsa, shaping the tempo and style of the midfield.
Valverde seems to be the perfect embodiment of Bielsa’s footballing philosophy. With an incredible combination of relentless energy, superb ball control and sharp tactical thinking, he brings a perfect balance of physical strength and creative spirit. It is no exaggeration to say that Valverde is “laboratory-grown” to suit Bielsa’s demanding and energetic style of play.
While Valverde did not emerge as a clear frontrunner for the Player of the Tournament award, that does not diminish his value to the Uruguayan squad. Should the award unexpectedly go to a player who did not feature in the final, Valverde would certainly be one of the most deserving names. With his all-round contributions, he has not only contributed to the success of his country, but has also further cemented his place as one of the best midfielders in modern football.
8. Alexis Mac Allister (NEW)
Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister may not be the brightest star in Argentina’s Copa America 2024 squad, but that doesn’t diminish his importance to the team’s play. Just like at the 2022 World Cup, where he played a huge part in Argentina’s historic title triumph, Mac Allister has continued to be consistent with his neat and responsible performances in midfield.
Mac Allister isn’t the type of player who creates magical moments or hogs the limelight, but his tenacity and intelligence provide an important balance to the team. He organises play, maintains possession and sets a steady rhythm in matches. His excellent reading of the game, combined with his tactical flexibility, has made him an indispensable element in Lionel Scaloni’s tactical scheme.
Mac Allister’s consistency and maturity have not only been recognised by fans but have also attracted the attention of Argentine football legends. Sergio Agüero recently praised the 25-year-old, calling him one of the top candidates to inherit the leadership role after Lionel Messi retires. This praise not only reflects his potential but also demonstrates the remarkable development of Mac Allister, who is expected to play an important role in the future of Argentine football.
7. Luis Diaz (NEW)
Liverpool star Luis Díaz may not be Colombia’s best player at Copa America 2024, but he has been a key figure in attack. With his blistering pace, excellent individual technique and versatile finishing ability, Díaz has consistently troubled opposition defences. He has been a key cog in Colombia’s attacking play, helping the team maintain their unbeaten run in the tournament. His tricky dribbling has not only created chances for his teammates but also directly contributed to important goals, helping the team assert their position in the region.
Colombia is currently emerging as a new force in South America, with promising performances at this Copa America. Looking ahead, Luis Díaz is a great hope for the team in their journey to conquer the World Cup in two years’ time. With his consistency and ability to create breakthroughs, he is expected to lead Colombia far in the international arena. Fans have reason to look forward to Díaz shining in a central role for a team full of ambition and potential.
6. Lautaro Martinez (↓3)
Lautaro Martínez enters the 2024 Copa America with a lot of confidence, after a memorable season with Inter Milan. Not only did he win the Capocannoniere award for Serie A’s top scorer, but he also played a major role in leading the Nerazzurri to the title. That excellent form continued with Martínez for Argentina, where he quickly became a leading candidate for the Golden Boot with four goals, despite only starting in one important match.
However, after failing to score in the quarter-final draw with Ecuador, coach Lionel Scaloni decided to bring Julian Álvarez back into the starting lineup. Whether Scaloni will choose Martínez or Álvarez for the final will certainly be a highlight. Even if he doesn’t start, Martínez can still make a difference, as he did in the group stage. His crucial goals as a substitute against Peru and Chile have confirmed the striker’s worth, making him a reliable strategic asset for the defending champions. With his sharp finishing and keen goal-scoring instincts, Martínez promises to continue to make a big contribution to Argentina’s quest for glory.
5. Lisandro Martinez (NEW)
European audiences may have been confused when they heard the name “L. Martínez” in the quarter-final between Argentina and Ecuador. They might have immediately thought of Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martínez, but this time, the man on target was someone else – Lisandro Martínez. The diminutive but powerful Manchester United defender quietly moved to the far post and headed in a precise effort from a corner to open the scoring in a dramatic 1-1 draw.
However, Lisandro had to leave the pitch when coach Lionel Scaloni decided to replace him with veteran Nicolás Otamendi. The change came just before Ecuador equalised in the final minute, but that did not overshadow the solidity that Lisandro brought. Statistics show that he has not conceded a goal in four starts, equivalent to 348 minutes at Copa America 2024 – an impressive record. This excellent form is no coincidence, as he continues to maintain the consistency that helped Manchester United win the FA Cup final. Lisandro has brought his fighting spirit and bravery across the Atlantic, becoming a solid support for the Argentine defense in the journey to defend the title.
4. Davinson Sanchez (NEW)
Last season, former Tottenham defender Davinson Sánchez struggled with persistent injuries, which limited him to less than half of Galatasaray’s title run. However, he has completely transformed himself at Copa America 2024, becoming an irreplaceable stopper in the Colombia squad, playing a major role in helping the team reach the final. Sánchez has been a rock at the back, bringing reassurance and stability to the team.
The highlight of Sánchez’s performance at the tournament came in the semi-final against Uruguay, a team in good form. In a challenging match, Colombia were forced to play with 10 men for nearly an hour after Daniel Muñoz picked up a second yellow card in the first half. Under pressure, Sánchez showed his leadership qualities as he marshaled the defence, thwarting any threat from Marcelo Bielsa’s men and helping Colombia keep a clean sheet. This heroic performance not only preserved Colombia’s advantage but also left Uruguay, despite their formidable attack, with few real chances to show for it.
Sánchez’s excellent form at the Copa America has not only dispelled any injury concerns but also confirmed that he remains one of the best defenders in South American football.
3. Lionel Messi (=)
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner put in a string of superb performances as Argentina won the Copa America and the World Cup in Qatar, ending the captain’s long wait for international silverware. He scored and assisted in abundance in Brazil and Qatar and was undoubtedly the best player in both tournaments.
This time around things were a little different, with the first evidence that his advancing years might finally be catching up with him. He managed just one (ridiculous) goal and one assist en route to the final, where Argentina certainly benefited from their advantage in the draw.
However, ordinary by Messi’s standards is still pretty extraordinary by anyone else’s standards. He was named Man of the Match in the 2-0 semi-final win over Canada and is still capable of delivering. We would be foolish to leave him out of the list of those who created something special against Colombia.
2. Emiliano Martinez (=)
Aston Villa and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is having a memorable Copa America, almost replicating his previous success by being named the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament. In the quarter-final against Ecuador, he once again showed his talent with some excellent penalty saves, helping Argentina win the shootout and saving Lionel Messi from embarrassment. With his ability to face and save in extremely pressured situations, Martínez has saved his team, showing his steadfastness in decisive moments.
Not only has he been outstanding in the shootouts, Martínez has also maintained a consistent form throughout the tournament, conceding just one goal in five appearances. His ability in goal, combined with his spectacular saves, has made him a solid pillar of Argentina’s defence. Martínez is not only a talented goalkeeper but could also become the first goalkeeper in Copa America history to win the Best Player award, breaking a barrier that has never been achieved before.
1. James Rodriguez (↑3)
The Colombian has struggled in recent years as the current trend in the club game has moved away from the classic number 10. He hasn’t even made a single appearance for Sao Paulo at the moment. But my God, he continues to deliver for his country. Look at him with a ball at his feet and it could be 2014. You’re 10 years younger. Close your eyes and you can hear ITV’s Brazil, Braziiiiil theme tune.
We can’t help but admire James’ incredible resurgence. He’s been Colombia’s standout performer so far as they topped a group that included Brazil, eliminated Uruguay and extended their current unbeaten run to 28(!) games in all competitions. He has won the Man of the Match award in four of his five appearances, scoring once and registering a record six assists at the Copa America. It’s incredible. Barring something extraordinary in the final, James is sure to win the Man of the Tournament award. Hail the return of the king.
Conclusion
At the end of Copa America 2024, although there was no real breakout star, the performances of the excellent players made a deep impression. Among them, James Rodríguez proved himself to be one of the most important factors, providing great assists and stability for the Colombian team. Although he did not have a major individual title, with impressive contributions throughout the tournament, he deserves to be considered the best player of Copa America 2024.
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