'He still has it’ - Ronaldo backs Messi to win 2026 World Cup

Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazário has emphatically debunked the long-standing myth that Argentine maestro Lionel Messi "walks too much" on the pitch.

The two-time World Cup winner believes the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will shine at the FIFA World Cup in 2026 set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking to DSports, the iconic "R9" expressed his unwavering confidence in Messi's enduring impact.

He said, "Having Leo is a huge advantage over the rest of us normal people in the world. I see him in great shape, and I think he’ll arrive at the World Cup in good form too.”

The Brazilian icon revealed he has been closely observing Messi's recent performances, including his involvement in the Club World Cup.

"I was watching Messi’s games at the Club World Cup, and he’s still got it," Ronaldo affirmed.

He continued, "Every time he touches the ball, something interesting happens. He always reads the game well, understands the play that needs to be made. If he loses the ball, he tries to get it back. He sprints 30 or 40 metres.”

Messi, who at 38 years old is currently dazzling fans in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami, famously on a "record-breaking run of scoring braces.”