With just over a month until the 2026 World Cup kicks off, Lionel Messi has shared his thoughts on Argentina’s chances of defending their Qatar 2022 title, sparking widespread discussion. While confident in Lionel Scaloni’s squad, he admitted that other national teams appear better prepared heading into the tournament.
Argentina’s captain assessed the team’s current form, highlighted the main contenders for the trophy, and hinted that this could be his final World Cup appearance.
“Argentina will compete as always”
In an interview on “Lo del Pollo,” Messi emphasized the squad’s competitive spirit but acknowledged that several players are dealing with injuries or a lack of match fitness.
“The team is in good shape. Some guys are coming in with injuries or lack of rhythm, but whenever this group comes together, they always compete, want to win, and give everything,” he said.
At the same time, he urged fans to keep expectations measured: “We should get excited, as Argentines always do for every major tournament, but knowing that other teams are in better form right now.”
His comments reflect the approach Argentina has maintained under Scaloni: a competitive side, but not one that places itself above other powerhouses.
Messi’s favorites to win the World Cup
When naming potential champions, the Argentine captain pointed to several top European and South American teams.
According to Messi, France once again stands out as one of the strongest contenders due to their wealth of world-class talent.
He also highlighted Spain and Brazil, even though the latter is going through a period less dominant than in the past.
Additionally, he included Germany, England, and Portugal among the usual suspects.
“There are always surprises, but the powerhouses are still there,” he summarized.
The competitive fire that remains undimmed
Messi also opened up about his mindset, admitting that competitiveness continues to drive his career, even in its final stage.
“I love playing football and I want to win at everything. I really struggle with losing,” confessed the captain, adding that he carries that competitive personality into daily life with his children.
His words have only fueled anticipation for what could be his last World Cup wearing the Argentine shirt.
The future of the national team beyond the World Cup
Looking beyond the 2022 triumph and the challenge of defending the title, Messi addressed the upcoming generational shift within the squad.
The Rosario native highlighted the emergence of young players and expressed confidence that many will arrive at the next World Cup cycle with accumulated experience and a solid foundation built during this era.
He also publicly backed Scaloni’s continued tenure, saying it would be “difficult” to find a replacement capable of maintaining the level of competitiveness and leadership that the current coaching staff has established.
Argentina’s path to the 2026 World Cup
Argentina has been placed in Group J for the World Cup and will make their debut on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City.
They will then face Austria and conclude the group stage against Jordan.
With Messi confirmed and a core of world champions still active, Argentina will once again be a team to watch. However, as the captain himself pointed out, the role of outright favorite seems to belong to other nations this time around.