Messi’s Argentina among 2026 World Cup favorites but not Ronaldo’s Portugal, says Arsenal icon Alan Smith

Arsenal legend Alan Smith named the favorites to compete for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title. Lionel Messi’s Argentina made the list — but Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal did not.

With less than four months until the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicks off, the soccer world is closely watching what will unfold. Former players and legends are no exception, and among them is Alan Smith. The former Arsenal striker included Lionel Messi’s Argentina among his favorites to win the title, but left out Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.