'French wanted Messi to win it' - Evra claims FIFA gave the World Cup to Argentine legend

Manchester United legend Patrice Evra has made a controversial claim about Lionel Messi and Argentina winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

In 2022, Argentina defeated France in a penalty shootout after playing 3-3 during full-time and extra time to win the FIFA World Cup.

Lionel Messi, who captained the Argentine team, scored two goals for his side and Kylian Mbappe scored a hattrick in the final.

However, despite the effort of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, many believed the World Cup was rigged in his favour.

Evra's take on Messi

Evra has also come out to question FIFA, claiming they gave Messi and Argentina the 2022 World Cup.

Speaking on RMC Sport show Rothen enflame on Wednesday, he said, "Okay, we haven't won (a major tournament) since 2018 but we all know that in 2022, they gave the World Cup to Messi. It was all already written. Even the French wanted Messi to win it."

Patrice Evra suggested that FIFA favoured Lionel Messi and Argentina during the 2022 World Cup, and as a result, they were destined to win.

Evra made these comments in support of France's manager, Didier Deschamps, who is stepping down after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.

Argentina will be looking to defend their trophy in 2026, and Messi will likely be playing in his last World Cup tournament.