Arsene Wenger backs France to win World Cup despite Spain threat
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes France will win the upcoming World Cup, identifying European champions Spain as the only nation capable of stopping Didier Deschamps’ side.
The current FIFA Chief of Global Football Development remains confident that his home nation will secure global glory later this month.
Les Bleus are seeking redemption after falling at the final hurdle against Argentina in the previous tournament, having previously lifted the trophy in 2018.
However, Luis de la Fuente’s side pose a significant obstacle, having defeated the French in both the Euro 2024 semi-final and a recent Nations League clash.
Technical brilliance threatens French dominance
Despite recent head-to-head struggles, the former Gunners boss remains steadfast in his prediction.
“France will win the World Cup,” Wenger told Sky Sports.
“I know you will say, ‘of course you say that, you’re French’.”
“But when you analyse the World Cup, the train goes at a certain pace and you have to be capable of getting on the train.”
The Frenchman noted that several Asian teams have already been eliminated because they could not cope with the intense physical demands of the tournament.
Spain provide the ultimate test
“The real question for me is Spain,” Wenger continued.
“If one team is capable now of beating France I would say it is Spain because their technical level is better than France.”
“They have quality and a culture of collective football that nobody else in the world has at that level.”
“That could be the decider between these two but of course France is stronger physically.”
Path to the semi-finals
The two European heavyweights are currently on a collision course to meet in the final four of the competition.
To reach that highly anticipated showdown, Les Bleus must first defeat Morocco, while Los Rojos are tasked with overcoming Belgium.
Meanwhile, the opposite side of the knockout bracket features both England and defending champions Argentina.
The Three Lions face Norway in their quarter-final tie, hoping to secure a semi-final spot alongside the winner of the clash between the South American giants and Switzerland.