Messi doesn't see Argentina as World Cup favourites: «Others lead» | OneFootball

Leo gave a preview of what the World Cup will be like and, although he couldn’t hide his excitement about winning back-to-back titles, he admitted that there are other contenders for the trophy who “are arriving in better shape.”

So far, beyond the countless questions he has been asked about it, Lionel Messi has never, ever confirmed that he will be at the 2026 World Cup. But it is clear that, as the competitive genius he is, he has no intention of missing it. He is preparing for what will probably be his last dance with the Argentina national team at 40 years old (he will turn 40 during the tournament), and his desire to embrace glory once again remains intact. Although he was also candid and admitted that they are not the main favorites.

“(Argentina) is doing well. Even though today there are a lot of guys dealing with injuries and a lack of rhythm, the truth is that the group is united. It has been proven that this is a group that competes, always wants to win, and gives everything to try to achieve its goals. We have to dream, just as Argentinians always do every time there is an official competition, whether it’s the Copa América or the World Cup, but also know that ahead of us there are other favorites, who are arriving in better shape as a group and as a national team”, Leo said on the show Lo del Pollo.

His remarks, grounded and far from being swept up in World Cup euphoria, help show where the national team stands heading into the World Cup. It is not the favorite, as it was in Qatar, but No. 10 made it clear that everyone will leave their soul on the field to win back-to-back titles: “This Argentina team will always go out to compete and give its maximum, just as it has done ever since this group came together.”

As for the title contenders, those national teams that are a step above La Albiceleste, Messi responded with the same speed he shows on the pitch: “As of today, France looks very good again. It has a lot of players of a very high level. I think Spain, Brazil, which even though it hasn’t been at its best for a little while is always a contender and has the players to compete in every official tournament.”

Already in full media mode, the Inter Miami star wrapped up his analysis with just over a month to go before the ball starts rolling:

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.