Ronaldo Nazario, the Brazilian football legend and World Cup champion, has backed Lionel Messi to play a crucial role in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and expressed confidence in the diminutive Argentine's ability to significantly benefit Argentina. Ronaldo appreciated Messi's current form and ability to influence games, and despite critiques questioning his movement on the pitch, Ronaldo stated that he sees Messi as a key player who thoroughly understands the game. Speaking to DSports, Ronaldo said Argentina will have a significant edge if Messi plays in the tournament. “Having Leo is a huge advantage over the rest of us normal people in the world. I see him in great shape, and I think he’ll arrive at the World Cup in good form too.” Despite critics pointing to Messi’s reduced off-the-ball movement with age, Ronaldo firmly backed the Inter Miami star’s continued impact on the pitch. “I was watching Messi’s games at the Club World Cup, and he’s still got it. Every time he touches the ball, something interesting happens. He always reads the game well and understands the play that needs to be made. If he loses the ball, he tries to get it back. He sprints 30 or 40 metres.” Ronaldo also praised Argentina’s team dynamics under coach Lionel Scaloni, noting how the 2022 World Cup-winning squad is built on unity and tactical discipline. “(Lionel) Scaloni has built a team that plays soccer with a lot of drive and commitment. A team that supports each other all the time. A very smart team that also knows how to suffer.” Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar 2022, has not yet confirmed if he will feature in the 2026 edition. But with legends like Ronaldo backing him, the stage seems set for another magical run.