Recently retired Argentine legend Angel Di Maria has shared his insights on which nations could lift the FIFA World Cup trophy in 2026. The former Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain star, who played a crucial role in Argentina’s 2022 triumph, believes several European powerhouses stand out.
In a conversation with Ballon d’Or, Di Maria emphasized France’s consistent production of elite talent and their ability to maintain high standards as key reasons for their favorite status. He also pointed to Spain, noting their strong performances but cautioning that injuries to key players could affect their campaign.
Furthermore, Di Maria highlighted Portugal, the team of his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, as a squad brimming with quality. He specifically mentioned midfielders João Neves and Vitinha, stating they add a unique flair to the game and can make a significant impact. According to Di Maria, there are three or four teams that will be genuinely competing for the trophy.