The former Man United player who believes Messi was gifted the 2022 World Cup

The wound of the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar still bleeds in France. Patrice Evra, former Manchester United and French national team player, has reignited the controversy by claiming "they gave Messi the World Cup." His statements, which contrast with his previous praises of the Argentine star, have generated an intense debate in the football world.

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A Painful Memory

The final on December 18, 2022, left an indelible mark on the memory of the French. The French team, after an epic comeback, fell to Argentina in the penalty shootout, frustrating their aspirations to retain the title won in Russia 2018.

Evra's Controversial Statement

On the program "Rothen en llamas" on RMC Sport, Patrice Evra dropped a bombshell by stating: "It's okay, yes, we haven't won since 2018, but I'm sorry, we all know they gave Messi the World Cup in 2022. Even the French, even the French wanted Messi to win... I saw the final, a million things happened in the final. Dembélé's penalty at the start... how did it happen?"

A Change of Discourse

These statements contrast with the praises that Evra had dedicated to Messi after the World Cup. At that time, the former French full-back defended the legitimacy of the Argentine title and highlighted Messi's figure as the best player in the world.

Van Gaal's Precedent

Evra's words add to the statements of former Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal, who also questioned the legitimacy of the Argentine title. "It was all premeditated, Messi had to be world champion," Van Gaal stated in September 2023.

Messi's Defense

At that time, Evra defended Messi, highlighting his hierarchy and his ability to make a difference in key moments. "Messi led Argentina to win. People say he didn't win the World Cup because he scored five penalties. I say go and convert those penalties yourself," Evra stated.

An Undisputed Legacy

Despite the controversial statements, Messi's legacy in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar is unquestionable. The Argentine star was the undisputed leader of the Argentine team, scoring decisive goals and guiding his team to glory.

The Reaction of the Football World

Evra's statements have generated a wave of reactions in the football world. While some agree with his opinion, others defend the legitimacy of the Argentine title and criticize the words of the former French player.

More than two years after the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, the controversy does not cease. Patrice Evra's statements have reignited the debate about the legitimacy of the Argentine title and have put Lionel Messi's figure in the spotlight.