Ahead of the start of the Euros on Sunday, Goal picks the tournament's best ever XI – based on impact, success and playing position at the time
GettyPetr Cech
Francesc Arnau did not concede a single goal from the quarter-finals on during Spain's triumph in 1998, while Manuel Neuer was beaten just once when Germany lifted the trophy for the first time in 2009.
However, our chosen No.1 is Petr Cech, who was awarded the Golden Player award in 2002, after inspiring Czech Republic to a shock win, with the former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper even saving two penalties in the shootout success against France in the final.
"They had a great goalkeeper, great not only in size but also in the way he played, and that made the difference," losing coach Raymond Domenech lamented afterwards.
AdvertisementGettyChristian Panucci
Christian Panucci had already broken into the AC Milan first team when he helped Italy retain the European Under-21 Championship crown in 1994, even popping up with a goal in the quarter-final first-leg win over Czech Republic, as well as converting the opening penalty in the shootout victory over France in the last four.
The versatile right-back then returned two years later, as the Azzurrini made it three titles in a row by edging out Spain on spot-kicks in the final.
Panucci missed his penalty this time around but he had once again played a pivotal role in his country's success with his defensive excellence and attacking endeavour.
GettyManuel Sanchis
A member of a famed group of Real Madrid youth academy products nicknamed 'Quinta del Buitre', Manuel Sanchis underlined his enormous potential with his commanding performances at Under-21 level for Spain.
With the composed and classy sweeper marshalling their defence, La Rojita qualified for the 1986 European Championship knockout stage without conceding a goal.
The Iberians' swashbuckling style meant they failed to keep a clean sheet from the quarters on, but Sanchis, with his clever positioning and perceptive reading of the game, was imperious at the back and was named the tournament's Golden Player after Spain defeated Italy on penalties in the final.
GettyFabio Cannavaro
One of the finest defenders of all time and unquestionably the greatest to ever grace the European Under-21 Championship.
Fabio Cannavaro may have been small in size but he was a centre-half of immense stature, as he underlined by helping Italy win the title in 1994 by nullifying a Portugal team containing Luis Figo and Rui Costa in the final.
The 2006 World Cup winner was even more dominant two years later, when the Azzurrini retained their title by edging out a Raul-spearheaded Spain side on penalties.