The 2022 FIFA World Cup will kick off in a few days and everyone will be providing their take as to which national team is the favorite heading into the tournament, including Lionel Messi.
During an interview that ESPN Argentina aired, the 35-year-old provided his two favorites to win the competition: Brazil and France. The Paris Saint-Germain star explained why these two countries could be lifting the trophy.
“I think France, even though they have had injured players, have terrible potential,” Messi said. “They have a lot of players and a coach who has been in the same group for a long time.
“They have already won a World Cup. Brazil have a block of quality players and a lot of players to create the imbalance. They have a nine, they have Ney… It’s hard to win.”
"BRASIL, FRANCIA E INGLATERRA", en la nota mano a mano con la Conmebol, Leo Messi dio sus candidatos para el Mundial de #Qatar2022. pic.twitter.com/R6dmPF5Ch4
— SportsCenter (@SC_ESPN) November 15, 2022
Now some will ask why Messi didn’t mention his national team, Argentina. Maybe the veteran forward wants to avoid adding any pressure to the squad that already faces it, considering they’re the squad that needs to win the competition for Messi.
The team is tasked with providing the PSG star the storybook ending, allowing him to ride off into the sunset with a World Cup to end his international career. Saying they’re the favorite could be more unnecessary pressure on the team as they head into the competition.
