Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterAs Argentina gear up to defend their World Cup crown, the Albiceleste will again be one of the bookies favourites in North America this summer.Once again, they will be led by the peerless Lionel Messi, who will be playing in his sixth World Cup tournament, with his influence on the team still as strong as ever.With Messi turning 39 during this years group stage, this is likely to be his final World Cup and while many have been questioning how long the Inter Miami star can continue at the highest level, one former Argentina captain believes he will be vital during this summers defence of their title.Javier Zanetti backs Lionel Messi againArgentinas triumph in Qatar four years ago was headlined by Messi finally earning the World Cup medal that had eluded him through his glittering career.And while the eight-time Ballon dOr winners place in the pantheon of the games all-time greats is assured whatever happens now, should he lead Argentina to another World Cup title, it will take him to another level. You may like Lionel Messi didnt need the World Cup to be among the greatest of all time, but he deserved it. He brought glory to Argentina Javier Zanetti on how Messi created history in 2022 Lionel Messi's final World Cup squad: Every player in Argentina's 2026 selection 'Well know in a few months' Lionel Messi close friend gives verdict on Argentina legend's retirement plans Javier Zanettis 125-cap Argentina career was played out between his countrys second and third World Cup titles, and he believes that his country will face a tough task retaining their title.That wont be easy, although great young players are emerging, he tells FourFourTwo.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.But in the talismanic Messi, the former Inter Milan stalwart believes they still have a difference-maker.Im convinced that with Messi, Argentina will be a major contender again for this World Cup, he adds.Hes fully capable of continuing as a leader hes intelligent, he knows better than anyone what the team needs, and hes surrounded by talented players in the national team.This supporting cast will clearly be vital if Argentina are to repeat as Champions, just as they were in Qatar.But as Messi prepares for his likely swansong on the international stage, Zanetti also hopes that he can savour the occasion.The time has come for Messi to enjoy his football the most important thing now is that he enjoys what he does.TOPICSArgentinaWorld CupJoe MewisSocial Links NavigationFor more than a decade, Joe Mewis has worked in football journalism as a reporter and editor. Mewis has had stints at Mirror Football and LeedsLive among others and worked at FourFourTwo throughout Euro 2024, reporting on the tournament. In addition to his journalist work, Mewis is also the author of four football history books that include times on Leeds United and the England national team. Now working as a digital marketing coordinator at Harrogate Town, too, Mewis counts some of his best career moments as being in the iconic Spygate press conference under Marcelo Bielsa and seeing his beloved Leeds lift the Championship trophy during lockdown.With contributions fromDani Gil
