UEFA Women’s Euro 2025: 10 rising stars to watch in Switzerland

As the Women’s Euro 2025 kicks off this July in Switzerland, the spotlight will not only shine on the established superstars, such as Lauren James, Aitana Bonmatí, Pernille Harder, and Frida Maanum, but also on a new generation of talent poised to make their mark on Europe’s biggest stage.
With 16 teams competing and 368 players taking part, the tournament promises fierce competition, unforgettable moments, and breakout performances. While some names dominate headlines, we’ve highlighted 10 rising stars and under-the-radar players who could shape the narrative and steal the show at this year’s European Championship.
Claudia Pina (Spain)
One of Spain’s most gifted young forwards, Claudia Pina debuted for Barcelona at just 16. Known for her elegant technique, vision, and goal-scoring instincts, she plays with a maturity beyond her years. After topping the scoring charts in the 2024/25 Champions League, she enters Euro 2025 as a genuine match-winner for La Roja.
Ewa Pajor (Poland)
Having risen from Poland’s domestic league to the elite ranks of Barcelona, Ewa Pajor is a dynamic winger with clinical finishing. She was instrumental in Poland’s historic qualification campaign, tallying 4 goals and 3 assists. After making El Clasico history with a hat-trick, she’s ready to light up the Euros on debut.
Tessa Wullaert (Belgium)
A stalwart of Belgian women’s football, Wullaert brings experience, strength, and precision. With 92 goals in 145 international caps, she leads by example. Her aerial prowess and eye for goal make her Belgium’s most dangerous weapon and a potential Golden Boot outsider.
Alessia Russo (England)
Already a household name, Alessia Russo continues her upward trajectory after securing the WSL Golden Boot and guiding Arsenal to Champions League glory. At 26, she’s now England’s focal point in attack and will be crucial in their title defense after the Lionesses' Euro 2022 triumph.
Related News: Alessia Russo named FWA Women's Footballer of the Year
Caroline Graham Hansen (Norway)
One of the world’s most electrifying wingers, Graham Hansen combines pace, flair, and precision. The Barcelona star, fresh off a second-place Ballon d'Or finish, will lead Norway’s creative charge in Switzerland, aiming to inspire her nation to another deep run.
Arianna Caruso (Italy)
Midfield maestro Arianna Caruso has quietly become Italy’s engine. A complete midfielder, she excels at breaking up play, linking defense to attack, and arriving late in the box. With tactical intelligence and consistency, Caruso is vital to Italy’s hopes of upsetting the elite.
Lea Schüller (Germany)
With Alexandra Popp nearing retirement, Schüller steps in as Germany’s new leading striker. A regular goal threat with supreme movement and finishing, she brings firepower to the Die Nationalelf and will be aiming to avenge Germany’s Euro 2022 final loss.
Read Also: Alexandra Popp bids Germany farewell
Andreia Jacinto (Portugal)
Midfield dynamo Andreia Jacinto is Portugal’s rising star. A deep-lying playmaker with vision and composure, she controls tempo and breaks lines with her passes. After helping Portugal to their first World Cup appearance in 2023, she’s set to lead a new generation into Euro history.
Vivianne Miedema (Netherlands)
After swapping Arsenal for Manchester City in 2024, Miedema remains a global icon. Already the Netherlands’ all-time leading scorer, her return from injury is perfectly timed. Known for her sharp finishing and off-pitch advocacy, Miedema remains one of football’s most influential figures.
Clara Mateo (France)
Clara Mateo had a breakout year with Paris FC, finishing the 2024/25 campaign as the French league’s top scorer. Now pushing for a starting spot with Les Bleues, she’s a versatile attacker capable of playing as a winger, playmaker, or false nine—and could be France’s secret weapon at Euro 2025.
With Switzerland 2025 shaping up to be the most competitive Women’s Euro yet, keep your eyes on these emerging and re-emerging stars. Whether it’s scoring wonder goals, dictating midfield battles, or sparking tactical brilliance, these players could define the tournament and perhaps even write themselves into history.
Chris John