Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has dismissed claims that FIFA is favouring Lionel Messi and Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the conspiracy theories as the handiwork of supporters of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Mikel made the comments on The Rest Is Football podcast during a discussion previewing Wednesday’s semi-final clash between defending champions Argentina and England at the 2026 tournament.
The exchange was triggered by remarks from former England midfielder Joe Cole, who suggested there was widespread global desire to see Messi reach the final.
“I think the whole world wants Lionel Messi in the final.
“They’re going to have to deal with the shithousery from the Argentinians… If I’m the manager, I would buy into that, and I think they’ll target Jude Bellingham. I think you’ll see De Paul niggling at him. He plays on the edge,” Cole said.
Cole, however, clarified that he was not alleging match manipulation by FIFA.
“I’m not saying there’s anything, any skulduggery at all, from FIFA; the vibes of the world want Argentina to get there because they want Messi to get there,” he added.
