Gavi Backs Messi’s Argentina as Favourites for 2026 World Cup Despite Spain’s Rising Momentum
Gavi has tipped Argentina national football team as the favourites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that Lionel Messi’s presence still makes the reigning champions the team to beat.
The FC Barcelona midfielder made the statement shortly after helping Barcelona secure another LaLiga title with a 2-0 victory over Real Madrid CF in El Clasico at Camp Nou.
Speaking in an interview with D Sports, Gavi admitted that although Spain head into the World Cup as European champions, he still believes Messi-led Argentina remain the strongest contenders.
“Argentina are the biggest favourites for the World Cup because they are the current champions,” Gavi said.
“Leo Messi is the best player in the world, and as long as he is on the field, they will be the best team.”
The 21-year-old missed Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph through injury but is now expected to play a major role for La Roja at the World Cup next month.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi recently added another milestone to his legendary career after becoming the fastest player in MLS history to reach 100 goal contributions. The Inter Miami captain achieved the feat in just 64 matches following his goal and two assists against Toronto FC.
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What makes Gavi’s comments interesting is not just the praise itself, but who it is coming from.
Gavi belongs to a new generation of footballers expected to dominate the next decade, yet even he openly admits that Lionel Messi still changes the balance of world football.
That says everything about Messi’s influence.
Even at this stage of his career, the Argentine captain continues to combine elite performance with psychological impact. Opponents fear him, teammates trust him, and rivals respect him enough to place Argentina above younger, more energetic squads.
Spain may have the tactical structure, France may have the depth, and Brazil may have the flair, but Argentina possess something difficult to measure — belief built around a football icon who still delivers when it matters.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, one thing is becoming clear again: as long as Messi is involved, Argentina will never be considered outsiders.
