Messi says Argentina among World Cup favorites, but other contenders come in stronger

Lionel Messi believes his Argentina team enters the 2026 World Cup as one of the favorites to lift the trophy this summer but cautioned fans to be wary of other teams that go into the tournament even stronger. Messi led Argentina to the 2022 title and, despite turning 39 during this year's tournament, is expected to lead the team's title defense this summer. But injuries to key players and strong showings from other teams has Messi warning that a repeat will not come easily.

"Honestly, we’re coming in well," Messi said. "While there are a lot of guys going through injuries or a lack of rhythm because of one thing or another, the truth is when the group is together, we’ve shown it’s a group that competes, that always wants to win, that gives everything to be able to try to reach the goal. It’s a World Cup.

We know the World Cup always is tough because of the national teams that are there. "You have to dream like an Argentine always dreams when there is an official competition, Copa América or World Cup, but also to know that there are other favorites in front of us who come in better as a group, as a national team. This Argentina is always going to go to compete and give it all.

" Who did Leo Messi pick as his World Cup favorites? Pressed to give his list, Messi noted he expects a challenge from some of the usual suspects, including Argentina's 2022 World Cup final opponent and a South American rival. "Well, I think today France is really good again, it has a lot of players at a great level," Messi said.