Euro 2024 has come to an end, and while the dust settles on the tournament, we’re digging through the key moments and events, this time giving out one of our NextGoalWinner player of the month (or tournament) awards for the action we’ve just seen. With several big performers to pick from, we could have selected half of the Spain squad, but we’ve gone for one standout player who wasn’t always in the headlines, but really helped his team through many tough games.

Fabian Ruiz has been pivotal throughout Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign among the many impressive displays produced by their side. While not every game has been a dominant display, sometimes scraping past opponents, Ruiz has bagged 2 goals and 2 assists as his efforts helped Spain to claim the silverware and restore their spot at the top of the European game.

If you have anything to add to our NextGoalWinner POTM decision, or disagree with our pick, head over to X (@NextGoalWinBlog) or Instagram (@NextGoalWin) and let us know what you think of our selection.

Match By Match

June 15th: Spain 3-0 Croatia: Ruiz announced himself in the tournament with a standout display, not just controlling midfield but also contributing directly to the scoreline. He assisted Álvaro Morata’s opener with a precise through-ball and then scored Spain’s second goal with a composed finish, helping to set the tone for a dominant first-half performance. His all-around influence in possession and attacking contribution earned him man-of-the-match honours in a convincing opening victory.

June 20th: Spain 1-0 Italy: Facing a well-organised Italian side, Ruiz’s role shifted slightly as Spain adopted a more measured approach. Although he didn’t score, he continued to dictate play with his passing and creativity, helping Spain maintain control of possession. His involvement in key passages kept Spain’s tempo high, even in a tighter tactical contest where goals were scarce.

June 24th: Spain 1-0 Albania: With top spot in the group already secured, Spain rotated heavily, but Ruiz remained a midfield mainstay. Playing in a slightly lower-intensity match that saw few clear chances, he helped Spain preserve their perfect defensive record and close out the group stage with calm ball retention and organisational discipline. He didn’t register goals or assists, but his presence was key in maintaining balance.

June 30th: Spain 4-1 Georgia: Ruiz returned to direct attacking impact in the knockout rounds, scoring Spain’s second goal as they pulled away from underdogs Georgia. He demonstrated excellent positioning and aerial awareness by heading home Lamine Yamal’s cross, helping turn the contest fully in Spain’s favour after an early own goal against them. His performance anchored Spain’s build-up play as they advanced comfortably.

July 5th: Spain 2-1 Germany: In a tense encounter against hosts Germany, Ruiz’s influence was subtler but essential. While the match required extra time and he didn’t score, he maintained rhythm in midfield across 120 minutes, combining defensive responsibility with forward transitions. His control helped Spain weather German pressure and ultimately progress after Mikel Merino’s dramatic late winner.

July 9th: Spain 2-1 France: In another high-stakes match, Ruiz helped stabilise Spain’s midfield as they overcame early French pressure. After conceding first, Spain rallied and triumphed with goals from Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo. Ruiz’s composure and ball circulation allowed Spain to gradually assert control, underpinning the team’s tactical shift from chasing to leading the contest.

July 14th: Spain 2-1 England: In the final, Ruiz completed a full-tournament contribution by starting and playing the entire match, helping Spain dominate possession and dictate the pace. Even without direct statistical returns, his role in maintaining Spain’s rhythm was vital in seeing out a tight victory over England, sealing Spain’s fourth European Championship and completing a perfect seven-wins campaign.