Cristian Vieri has given his assessment of the 2026 World Cup, stating that France and Argentina are the clear favourites to win the tournament. Vieri, a legendary former Inter and Italy striker, believes that France have the most complete squad, with no other team able to compete with their strength.
Vieri's Verdict
In an in-depth interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Vieri praised the French team, saying: 'France are the most complete, there is no competition. They're too strong.' He also highlighted the exceptional talent of Lionel Messi, saying: 'He's like Harry Potter, he's making magic even at 39 years old.' Vieri believes that Messi, along with Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, will be in contention for the Golden Boot.
Italian Talent
Despite Italy's absence from the 2026 World Cup, Vieri believes that there are still two Italian players who are strong enough to start for France: Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sandro Tonali. Donnarumma, the Manchester City goalkeeper, has been in impressive form, while Tonali, the midfielder, has been linked with a big-money move to Tottenham. Vieri's comments highlight the talent that exists within the Italian national team, even if they are not competing in the World Cup.
Vieri's comments are a stark reminder of the gulf in class between France and the rest of the world, but also highlight the talent that exists within the Italian national team. Donnarumma and Tonali are two players who could make a real impact on the world stage, and it will be interesting to see how they develop in the future. However, it's hard to disagree with Vieri's assessment that France are the team to beat at the 2026 World Cup.
Vieri's comments have significant implications for the 2026 World Cup, as they suggest that France are the clear favourites to win the tournament. With their strong squad and talented players, it's hard to see any other team competing with them. The absence of Italy from the tournament is also a significant blow, but the talent of players like Donnarumma and Tonali offers hope for the future.
Preguntas Frecuentes
Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sandro Tonali
France and Argentina
Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, and Erling Haaland