Laurent Blanc: Messi is a Phenomenon

Former France national team coach Laurent Blanc has shared his insights on the upcoming North American World Cup. He revealed his favorites for the tournament and singled out two players: Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.

Regarding Messi's performance, Blanc stated: "It's incredible. I played until almost 38, but for a defender, it's easier. Experience and positional awareness help you. For him, who scores goals and relies on speed, explosiveness, dribbling... And to think he's turning 39. He truly is a phenomenon."

"Germany is strong, and Spain with Yamal is a different team. Messi's Argentina are the champions and deserve respect, and then there's Ancelotti's Brazil. Among the potential surprises, I'd include Switzerland and Morocco," Blanc commented.

The Frenchman noted the unpredictable nature of the tournament: "It's clear to me that there are no easy matches. Cape Verde drew with Spain, Congo held Portugal, Qatar did the same with Switzerland, Japan drew with the Netherlands, and Ghana stopped England. I could go on. At the international level, you always have to show your best and play with maximum concentration."