Argentina star player Lionel Messi has picked the national teams that he believes are favourites to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Messi will again shoulder Argentina’s hopes in Qatar as they bid to deliver the South American country’s third world title. A first since 1986.

The 35-year-old has picked out Brazil, France and England as the biggest threats to Argentina’s chances of winning the trophy.

LIONEL MESSI PREDICTIONS

“Whenever we talk about candidates, we always talk about the same teams,” Messi told South American Federation Conmebol.

“If I have to put some above others I think Brazil, France and England are a little bit above the rest. But the World Cup is so difficult and so complicated that anything can happen.”

Messi reached the final with Argentina in 2014 but suffered an extra-time defeat by Germany.

Copa American champions Argentina are unbeaten in 35 games. If this is to be Messi’s final World Cup, they are in the form to deliver the title.

“We are very excited. We have a very nice group that is very eager. But we think about going little by little,” he said.

“We hope to start the World Cup in the best way to face everything that comes after. The more you play and the more time you spend on the pitch, the more you get to know each other.”

TIGHT GROUP FOR ARGENTINA

Argentina’s opening Group C match is against Saudi Arabia before they face Mexico and Poland.

Meanwhile, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has tipped Messi to have a great World Cup.

“I see him as always… eager to enjoy the World Cup,” Scaloni told reporters ahead of Wednesday’s game.

“He knows how to play wearing this jersey. He’s enjoying his team mates, training sessions, the stay and the whole process.”