Former French international Patrice Evra has ignited debate by claiming that FIFA “gave” Lionel Messi the 2022 World Cup. Speaking on RMC Sport’s Rothen s’enflamme, Evra suggested that Argentina’s victory over France in the final was preordained.
“Okay, we haven’t won 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,” Evra declared.
He pointed to the controversial penalty awarded to Argentina early in the final as an example of favoritism.
Defending Deschamps Amid Speculation
Evra also defended France’s long-serving manager Didier Deschamps, who has faced criticism for his pragmatic style despite consistently leading the team to deep tournament runs. With Deschamps set to step down after the 2026 World Cup, speculation is already swirling about his replacement, with Zinédine Zidane being the frontrunner.
“I find it disrespectful that we are already discussing a new coach while Deschamps is still here,” Evra said. “Do people prefer winning or just playing beautiful football? France has been in almost every semi-final or final. That’s not enough?”
Evra’s remarks have sparked debate among football fans, with some dismissing his claims while others agree that Argentina’s triumph felt scripted. Whether fact or frustration, his words have certainly added fuel to the ongoing discussions about FIFA, favoritism, and the legacy of the 2022 World Cup.
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