On Sunday, amidst the celebrations of Paris Saint-Germain's latest triumphs, a familiar face from the club's past offered his thoughts on the world's biggest football event. Javier Pastore, the Argentine playmaker who once dazzled the Parc des Princes, took a moment to look ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and his assessment left little doubt about where he sees the greatest power residing.
"Argentina is logically the number one favorite," Pastore stated, as reported by L'Equipe. "But France, Spain, and Portugal will have their say." The succinct forecast carries the confidence of a man who knows the Argentine game intimately, yet respects the continental strength that Europe will bring to the tournament.
Argentina enters the 2026 World Cup as the defending champion, having ended a 36-year drought with their emotional 2022 triumph in Qatar. That victory, anchored by the genius of Lionel Messi, transformed the narrative around a nation that had long underachieved on the global stage. Now, with Messi still leading the side—at age 38 but with undimmed creativity—and a squad blending experience with young talent, the Albiceleste have a legitimate claim as the team to beat. Their 2024 Copa América title further cemented their status as the world's most in-form national side.
Pastore, who earned 29 caps for Argentina and was part of their 2014 World Cup runner-up squad, understands the weight of expectation that now sits on his compatriots' shoulders. The 2026 tournament, to be staged in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, feels almost like a home event for Argentina, with massive expatriate support expected. The tactical flexibility implemented by manager Lionel Scaloni, combined with a deep roster featuring stars like Lautaro Martínez and Enzo Fernández, provides multiple ways to win. It's not just about Messi anymore; it's a collective machine.
Yet Pastore rightly warns of the dangers posed by Europe's elite. France, despite their heartbreaking loss in the 2022 final, remain a powerhouse. The emergence of Kylian Mbappé as the planet's most explosive attacker, along with a development system that keeps producing top-tier talent, ensures Les Bleus will arrive with a squad capable of dominating any opponent. The 2026 cycle has seen France mature further, blending the 2018 champions' grit with new flair.
Spain, too, have rebuilt into a compelling force. Their triumph at Euro 2024 and the seamless integration of young midfielders like Pedri and Gavi into a tactically sophisticated setup under Luis de la Fuente has restored the Spanish identity of possession and pressing. Pastore's mention of Spain nods to their recent competitive edge—they are no longer just a possession machine, but a team that can hurt you in transition.
Portugal presents a different threat: a mix of seasoned icons and generation-defining stars. Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41, may still chase one more shot at glory, but the real strength lies in a supporting cast that includes Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and a defensive core that can grind out results. Portugal's 2016 European title showed they can thrive as underdogs; in 2026, they'll feel they have the balance to challenge any favorite.
Pastore's own legacy at PSG—where he was the first major signing of the Qatari era in 2011—and his emotional connection to the club's evolution give his voice a particular resonance. He saw firsthand how European football's financial power reshaped the game, and he understands the tactical innovations that flow from the continent. His balanced view, elevating Argentina but acknowledging the three European contenders, reflects a global perspective sharpened by a decade at Europe's top tables.
The prediction also aligns with broader sentiment among analysts. Betting markets have consistently placed Argentina and France as co-favorites, with Spain and Portugal nestled among the top threats. Pastore's hierarchy adds a layer of insider credibility, especially from a player who shared locker rooms with both Messi and Mbappé. It underscores a shifting dynamic: South America's champion is no longer an outsider but a modern, tactically astute giant.
As the 2026 World Cup draws nearer, the narratives will intensify. Argentina's journey to defend their crown faces a brutal European gauntlet, and Pastore's words serve as both a vote of confidence and a cautionary note. For fans, it's a tantalizing preview of a tournament charged with storylines—Messi's last dance, France's redemption, Spain's renaissance, and Portugal's last stand with their golden generation. All will converge on North America with the weight of history in tow.
In a football landscape where prediction is rarely straightforward, Pastore's clarity is striking. He knows that Argentina's path won't be easy, but that's precisely why his endorsement means so much. The blend of respect for European prowess and unwavering faith in his own nation's capabilities captures the essence of a World Cup on the horizon. It's an event where narratives are written in real time, and Pastore has made his opening statement.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.