World Cup: Benítez Names Four Favorites Among a Pool of Talent to Win the Trophy

Former Real Madrid manager Rafa Benítez has identified France, Spain, Germany, and England as the four favourites to lift the 2026 World Cup trophy.

Benítez highlighted the depth of talent in France, Spain, and England, naming players such as Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Rodri, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice.

He added that Germany is a strong contender due to its historical success in the competition.

Speaking to La Gazzetta, the former Liverpool coach said, “France possesses an impressive array of talent; they have even had to leave some players at home, which is astonishing: Dembélé, Barcola, Doue, Thuram, Olise, and Mbappé.”

“Then there is Spain, for similar reasons, because they have Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, alongside a fabulous midfield with Pedri and Rodri.”

“You can’t ignore Germany, because history counts, and certainly not England with Bellingham or Saka, Gordon or Rice.”