Patrik Schick

Patrik Schick is the Czech Republic's most important attacking player — a technically polished, intelligent centre-forward whose goal against Scotland at Euro 2020, struck from the halfway line, was one of the tournament's defining moments. At Bayer Leverkusen he has been a consistent Bundesliga scorer, though injuries have periodically disrupted his momentum. He is not a high-energy presser but a clinical finisher with excellent movement, strong hold-up play, and the composure to score in big moments. When fit, he is the focal point of the Czech attack and the player opponents most need to contain — his absence through injury is always keenly felt.