Gabriel Batistuta put the National Team as a contender in the World Cup: 'It's better than in 2022'

With the 2026 World Cup about to start, it is inevitable to think about who the favorites are to take the title. Opinions can vary greatly regarding the candidates, with some saying Spain, others France, or even Portugal, but there is always one that cannot be left out: the Argentine National Team. One of those who believes this is Gabriel Batistuta, who expressed optimism about the Albiceleste's chances of defending the title won in Qatar 2022 and assured that the team arrives at the World Cup in better condition than it had on that occasion.

The historic forward considered that the experience accumulated by the squad and the consolidation of the coaching staff are determining factors to explain the evolution of the team led by Lionel Scaloni. "I think Argentina is doing well this year too, and I even think it's better than in 2022. The players have four more years of experience, they are doing well, and the coaching staff manages all situations very well", he stated in an interview with Vía Libre.

Batistuta also referred to Lionel Messi, who will play in his sixth World Cup and arrive at the tournament at almost 39 years old. Far from showing concern about the captain's age, he highlighted his state of mind and the influence he can have within the team. "I see him motivated, I see him eager, and that gives me confidence. I hope he brings all his wisdom. I think it will be a good World Cup", he noted about the Rosario player, who will seek to lead Argentina in the defense of the title won in 2022.

The 9 of the National Team

Another topic he addressed was the competition for the center forward position. For a 9 of the caliber of what Batistuta was, Scaloni has two top-level options, and choosing between them is not easy. "Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez I love. If I were a coach, I would have a big problem because I like both", he explained.

He then deepened his analysis: "For me, they are quite similar, both play for the team, both score goals, both create spaces. Julián might score a bit more, but it's not necessary for him to score so much if they create chaos up front".

The former scorer of Fiorentina and Roma avoided leaning towards one of the two attackers and highlighted the response that both usually offer when they get to play in the Albiceleste jersey. "I wouldn't know how to choose. Both are doing well in the National Team. I don't see much difference when one plays or when the other plays", he emphasized.

His admiration for Maradona

During the conversation, there was also space for memories. Batistuta referred again to Diego Maradona, whom he placed above any other football reference in his career. "For us, Diego was the idol. For me, he will always be number 1 for a lot of reasons. Regardless of whether others play better or whatever. In terms of life, he is incomparable", he stated.

The former forward especially recalled the experience of sharing a squad with Maradona in the 1994 World Cup in the United States. "He was there, next to me. There are things that you can't express what you feel there. It was something inexplicable. It was beautiful", he confessed.