Messi Lowers Argentina’s Expectations Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi has already started preparing mentally for what could be his final World Cup, and one particular statement immediately sparked debate among Argentine fans. While he remains fully committed to competing again with the Argentina National Team, the captain admitted there are other nations currently in a stronger position heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking during an interview on Lo de Pollo, the Inter Miami star offered a far more cautious and analytical perspective about Argentina’s chances. Far from sounding overconfident, Messi preferred to stay grounded and recognize the level of today’s football powerhouses.

“There are other favorites that arrive in better form,” Messi admitted while discussing the international landscape. His words carried extra weight considering Argentina will enter the tournament as the defending world champion after its unforgettable triumph in Qatar 2022.

Still, Messi made it clear that past success guarantees absolutely nothing. According to the Argentine captain, international football is currently more competitive than ever, and even the smallest detail can completely change a World Cup campaign. He also highlighted the emotional strength and chemistry built by Lionel Scaloni’s squad over the last few years.

“When the group is together, it has shown that it always competes,” Messi explained, emphasizing the mentality that transformed Argentina into one of the most feared national teams in the world.

France Emerges as Messi’s Biggest Favorite

Among all the contenders Messi mentioned, one nation received special praise: France. The Argentine superstar believes the European side has once again positioned itself as one of the strongest teams on the planet and practically placed them at the top of the favorites list.

“France looks very strong again,” Messi stated, indirectly recalling the unforgettable Qatar 2022 final, widely considered one of the greatest matches in football history.

According to Messi’s comments on Lo de Pollo, France combines experience, elite talent, and squad depth that very few national teams can currently match.

Spain, Brazil, and Portugal Also Enter the Conversation

Besides France, Messi highlighted several other nations he believes are capable of seriously competing for the World Cup title. One of them was Spain, a team undergoing an impressive generational rebuild that is already producing results.

La Roja has started to regain a clear identity, fueled by young stars shining in Europe’s biggest leagues and a tactical structure reminiscent of the nation’s golden era.

Messi also made sure to mention Brazil, insisting that the South American giants can never be counted out of any World Cup discussion. “Brazil is always a candidate,” he said, acknowledging the country’s historic weight and individual quality.

His analysis also included traditional football powers such as Germany and England, along with special praise for Portugal, a nation still dreaming of one final major international tournament alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi even admitted Portugal possesses “a very competitive and strong national team,” thanks to a squad that blends veteran leadership with a new generation of rising stars.

Messi Sends a Warning Ahead of the World Cup

Beyond naming favorites, Messi also delivered a statement that perfectly captures the unpredictability of the World Cup. According to the Argentine captain, no team can feel safe, and surprises are always part of football’s biggest tournament.

“Unexpected things always happen,” Messi explained, suggesting another surprise nation could emerge just like in previous World Cups.

That cautious approach also reflects the pressure Argentina will face in 2026. Unlike Qatar, the Albiceleste will no longer arrive as an underdog story. This time, they will be the defending champions and one of the biggest targets in the competition.

WATCH beIN SPORTS XTRA LIVE FOR FREE ON YOUTUBE