Lionel Messi picks England as one of the favourites to win the World Cup

Argentina star Lionel Messi believes that England are one of the favourites to lift the World Cup trophy in Qatar. 

The 35-year-old has been incredibly successful in the world of football, with a record seven Ballon d’Or awards to his name. 

However, the World Cup trophy has eluded Messi who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. 

The former Barcelona star came very close to winning the prestigious tournament with Argentina when they made it to the final in 2014.

However, La Albiceleste eventually lost the game to Germany with Mario Gotze scoring in extra time. 

The South American side exited the tournament in Russia in the round of 16 following their 4-3 loss against France. 

However, momentum is now on their side as they are unbeaten in their previous 35 matches. Lionel Scaloni’s men defeated Brazil in the Copa America final in 2021 to end their trophy drought. 

Many people fancy Argentina to lift their third World Cup trophy this winter, but Messi remains coy on his own nation’s prospects. 

Messi told South American Federation CONMEBOL (via Sky Sports): “Well, when we always talk about the candidates, I think in all the tournaments, we say the same.

“There are a few surprises, but generally, the big teams are the candidates. But if I have to pick one [team] above the rest, I think Brazil, France and England, today they are a little bit above the rest. But a World Cup is always complicated, and anything can happen.”

England have an enviable squad for the 2022 World Cup, which includes the likes of Harry Kane, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham. 

However, the Three Lions have been enduring a dismal run as they have failed to win a game since March. 

Gareth Southgate’s side should at least make it to the knockout stage, but their chances of winning the tournament look slim.