As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, football legend Lionel Messi has opened up about the tournament, offering his insights on the favorites and Spain's rising star, Lamine Yamal. With Argentina aiming to defend the trophy they clinched in Qatar, Messi's perspective is as compelling as ever.

The tournament promises to showcase a wealth of talent, especially from Barcelona, whose players are expected to feature prominently for Spain. Lamine Yamal, the young prodigy, is anticipated to recover in time for the competition, joining fellow Blaugrana stars like Pedri, Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, Gavi, and Pau Cubarsi in what could be a formidable Spanish squad.

Messi, however, is cautious about Argentina's status as frontrunners. "We have to get excited, like Argentinians always do whenever there's an official competition—whether it's the Copa América or the World Cup—but we also have to know that there are other favorites ahead of us, who are coming in better as a group and as a team," he shared in an interview with the YouTube channel Lo del Pollo. "This Argentina team will always compete and give their best, just like they have since this group came together."

When pressed on potential champions, Messi highlighted several powerhouses. "Right now, France looks very good again. They have many top-level players. I think Spain, Brazil—although they haven't been at their best lately—are always contenders and have the players to compete in all official competitions. Then we all say the same things. Germany, England, the big powers… Portugal has a very competitive and good team too. And then there's always some surprise…"

From a gear perspective, whether you're backing Messi's Argentina, the rising Spanish stars, or any other contender, staying prepared with the right kit is essential for the World Cup buzz. Who do you think will lift the trophy in 2026? Share your predictions and join the conversation below!