Mbappe tops the bill of an all-star cast chasing glory

France are rightly favourites but with so much quality elsewhere nothing is certain

- Dan Kilpatrick

FOR the first time in 20 years, there will be no defending world champion at the European Championship, adding to a sense the tournament is an open field.

England are rightly among the favourites, but they are one of several sides aiming to be champions, while the 24-team format means even rank outsiders - Hungary are the most obvious pick as dark horses - will be eyeing a run into the knockouts.

For hosts Germany, who start proceedings against Scotland tonight, optimism is back and, more importantly, so too is icon Toni Kroos.

The midfielder's return from international retirement for a final swansong, coupled with some encouraging glimpses of new coach's Julian Nagelsmann's football, have given Die Mannschaft renewed hope, following a series of abject tournament failures.

Kroos adds to an experienced spine, also including goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and Toni Rudiger, while an attack of Arsenal's Kai Havertz, Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala is technical and unpredictable.

It is still, however, early days for Nagelsmann, who only succeeded Hansi Flick in September, and while Germany should comfortably progress from a group which also includes Hungary and Switzerland, a run to the last-four would probably be considered par by the home fans.

It may also be too soon to expect miracles from holders Italy under Luciano Spalletti, who will not have been in the job a year even if the Azzurri reach the final.

As well as a new coach, Italy go into the tournament with new leaders and a new style, with many of old guard who saw off England three years ago now retired.