Euro 2024 social round-up: Football, eh? Italy snatch a last-16 place and England debate rolls on

Gary Lineker has been at the centre of something of a storm when it comes to England at Euro 2024, and that story was plastered over social media on Monday.

Then, the football took control, with Spain keeping up their winning run and Italy salvaging a draw against Croatia to claim a spot in the last 16.

Here, we unpack the best of the day's social media clips from the tournament in Germany.

Football, eh?

Football... It's crazy!

With a minute to go, Italy - the holders - were on the brink of a possible exit, with Croatia leading 1-0 in Leipzig.

Yet within 30 seconds, Mattia Zaccagni's maiden Azzurri goal had sent Italy through into the last 16, and it's Croatia who are on the verge of an early departure.

Football, eh?

— Italy (@Azzurri_En) June 24, 2024

Lineker responds

There was a lot left to be desired following England's performance in their 1-1 draw with Denmark, but it is the post-match criticism that has since drawn the most attention.

In particular, Lineker's comments were brought to the attention of Harry Kane in a recent press conference, with the England captain urging the pundits to support the squad.

With the ball back in Lineker's court, he - along with fellow pundit Alan Shearer - had his say on the ongoing debate.

Our latest @RestIsFootball episode will be with you shortly. We’ll give our side of the press conference England criticism story. Also looking to do a Q&A episode later. If you have a question for us, reply to this post. Cheers.

— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) June 24, 2024

Ferdinand chips into pundit debate

Rio Ferdinand has done his fair share of punditry, and the former England defender had his say on the Lineker debate.

Ferdinand said the England players shouldn't expect pundits to act as "cheerleaders" when the team aren't performing.

England Team - Pundit Criticism Yes we have been in your shoes, yes react to comments when people step over the line but don’t be expecting cheerleading vibes when performances have been poor! See you tomorrow in Cologne! #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/X0XGL2B9FK

— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) June 24, 2024

Strike a pose

With qualification for the knockout stages already complete, Portugal do not have to worry about any pressure going into their final match against Georgia.

And while taking some time off during training, Joao Felix decided to try his hand at something a little different.

We may even see some of his photos popping up on Portugal's official X account in the coming days.

João Félix, o fotógrafo #PartilhaAPaixão | #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/FrUgewJ6MJ

— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) June 24, 2024

A family affair

Among the travelling Spanish fans are a family of nine, who have made a 2000km journey to watch their nation at the tournament.

After finally reaching their destination, they got to meet Ferran Torres, Marc Cucurella and Dani Vivian.

Torres subsequently starred for Spain as La Roja stayed perfect in Group B by beating Albania, with the Barcelona forward scoring the only goal of the game.

‍‍‍ Una Selección como de la ??????? Los Pajares-Llorens recorren más de dos mil kilómetros en furgoneta con sus siete hijos para poder animar a España en la @EURO2024. ¡¡Descubre esta historia tan ????!! https://t.co/upQQ91ZAdR #VamosEspaña | #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/Up6Ylx1ZRZ

— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) June 24, 2024

French cuisine

Ever wondered what an international footballer does at lunchtime?

Well, fortunately for you, the French team allowed their social admins into the inner sanctum.

Behind the scenes of France's lunch routine at #EURO2024... omelette seems a popular choice! pic.twitter.com/grCRlxGFh4

— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) June 24, 2024

Scholes backs Mainoo for big things

More punditry relating to England, and this time it was Paul Scholes who had his say.

Scholes thinks Kobbie Mainoo, who has had an impressive season with Manchester United, could be the player to pull the strings in midfield for the Three Lions.

"You think of Toni Kroos with Germany, he just makes them play football. Rodri with Man City and Spain. I think Kobbie Mainoo has got the ability to do that." Paul Scholes believes that Kobbie Mainoo could be the key to unlocking the attacking brilliance of England's midfield… pic.twitter.com/kTiAHj6UlB

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) June 24, 2024

Vertonghen sees into the future

Jan Vertonghen is playing in his sixth major tournament for Belgium, and his third Euros.

Sitting down at Belgium's 'The Basecamp', the veteran defender was given a glimpse of what he will look like if he chooses to forgo retirement and keep playing with the help of AI.

While Vertonghen was seemingly happy with the results, Maxim De Cuyper was not so impressed.

Back to the future. pic.twitter.com/ubk7hy0sRz

— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) June 24, 2024

The grind never stops

Cristiano Ronaldo will make his 50th appearance at a major tournament the next time he features at Euro 2024.

And even though Portugal are already through, the work on the training field never stops for the 39-year-old...

Trabalhar para o pleno! pic.twitter.com/KB4ipkjDV4

— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) June 24, 2024