Ronaldo Fans Behind FIFA-Messi Conspiracy Claims — Mikel Obi
Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has dismissed claims that FIFA is favouring Lionel Messi and Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the allegations are driven by supporters of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast while previewing Argentina's semi-final clash with England, Mikel rejected suggestions that FIFA wanted Messi to reach another World Cup final.
The debate began after former England midfielder Joe Cole said many football fans around the world hoped to see Messi in the final.
Cole also predicted England would have to cope with Argentina's aggressive style of play but stressed he was not accusing FIFA of manipulating matches.
Responding, Mikel dismissed the conspiracy theories, arguing that Argentina had earned its place through strong performances rather than special treatment.
According to the former Chelsea midfielder, Argentina secured a more favourable route in the tournament because they topped their group, adding that teams which win their matches naturally avoid tougher opponents in the knockout rounds.
Mikel praised Messi's displays throughout the competition, noting that the Argentine captain has continued to score goals and break records.
He added that if Argentina defeat England in the semi-final, they will have a strong chance of successfully defending the World Cup title they won in Qatar in 2022.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has reached its final stages.
Spain booked the first place in Sunday's final after defeating France 2-0, while Argentina and England were set to battle for the remaining spot.
Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast while previewing Argentina's semi-final clash with England, Mikel rejected suggestions that FIFA wanted Messi to reach another World Cup final.
The debate began after former England midfielder Joe Cole said many football fans around the world hoped to see Messi in the final.
Cole also predicted England would have to cope with Argentina's aggressive style of play but stressed he was not accusing FIFA of manipulating matches.
Responding, Mikel dismissed the conspiracy theories, arguing that Argentina had earned its place through strong performances rather than special treatment.
According to the former Chelsea midfielder, Argentina secured a more favourable route in the tournament because they topped their group, adding that teams which win their matches naturally avoid tougher opponents in the knockout rounds.
Mikel praised Messi's displays throughout the competition, noting that the Argentine captain has continued to score goals and break records.
He added that if Argentina defeat England in the semi-final, they will have a strong chance of successfully defending the World Cup title they won in Qatar in 2022.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has reached its final stages.
Spain booked the first place in Sunday's final after defeating France 2-0, while Argentina and England were set to battle for the remaining spot.
