ANTOINE GRIEZMANN believes it will be difficult for France to defend their World Cup crown – but didn’t include England among their biggest threats.
The Atletico Madrid star won the 2018 World Cup and suggests only one European country could rival France for The Jules Rimet Trophy – Spain.
Griezmann also fancies Brazil and Argentina, arguing the 2021 Copa American finalists are favourites in Qatar.
The striker made no mention of England however, though did not discount a surprise team making a run for the trophy.
In an interview with GQ Spain, Griezmann said: “Brazil, Argentina, Spain and France are the favorites for this World Cup.
“Afterwards, there are always surprises that cannot be foreseen.
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“It is a very difficult challenge. In four years the selections can change the team a lot.
“We have changed a lot, and not only because of the players, but also because of the way we play.
“(We) have to work. We are aware of the novices we have but there is still a long way to go. Everything will be seen in the field.”
Griezmann discounts England despite Gareth Southgate’s side only losing out on the Euros in a penalty shoot-out.
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France were knocked out in the round of 16 by Switzerland and won just one of their four games.
Griezmann also excluded Belgium from his list of favourites despite The Red Devils occupying second place in the world rankings list.
According to the bookies England are third favourites to win the World Cup, behind France and Brazil.
Spain and Germany round off the top five with both teams drawn in the same group in Qatar.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk