Lionel Messi says Argentina fans are right to dream of a second consecutive World Cup title, but warns other contenders, including France and Spain, are «in better form».
“There are many boys who are dealing with injuries or a lack of match fitness, but the truth is that when the group is together it is proven that they compete and always want to win,” Messi said of Argentina in an interview with presenter Pollo Alvarez, published on YouTube.
However, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has made Inter Miami the must-see team in Major League Soccer, said the competition will be fierce.
«As of today, France is back in top form. They have a lot of top players,» he said of the team that defeated Argentina in the 2022 final in Qatar.
He also tipped Spain and Brazil, calling Portugal «very competitive» and noting that traditional European powers Germany and England are always dangerous.
Messi, who turns 39 in June, has yet to officially confirm his participation in the tournament, which will be held from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Nevertheless, the former Barcelona star insisted he has not put a time limit on his career as his competitive hunger remains.
“I love playing football, and I’m going to do it until I can’t anymore,” said Messi, who earned MLS Most Valuable Player honors last season when he led Miami to the title and led the league in goals.
“I’m competitive,” he said. «I like to win at everything… I don’t even let my son win at video games.»
(with input from AFP)
Published on May 9, 2026
