'It’s already written' - When Ibrahimovic commented on Messi winning 2022 World Cup

Zlatan Ibrahimovic once implied that the 2022 FIFA World Cup had a bias in favour of Lionel Messi and Argentina.

The enigmatic Swedish footballer, who retired from the sport at the age of 41, suggested that it seemed destined for Messi to secure a World Cup victory with La Albiceleste in Qatar.

He made this bold statement after Argentina reached the semi-finals.

Fast forward and the South Americans defeated Croatia in the last four and overcame France in a thrilling final that was ultimately decided by a dramatic post-match penalty shootout.

Nine months after Messi added the only missing trophy to his collection by winning the World Cup, doubts still lingered about the legitimacy of his achievement in Qatar, per Football Espana.

More recently, Louis van Gaal cast a shadow over the veteran forward's success, implying the tournament may have been unfairly skewed in favour of the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner's fairy tale.

In light of these developments, a previous comment made by Zlatan has resurfaced, taken by some as reinforcing the former coach of the Netherlands' initial assertion.

"I think it's already written who will win, and you know who I mean. I think Messi will lift the trophy, it's already written," Ibrahimovic told reporters during AC Milan's mid-season tour of Dubai, as quoted by TCR.

Zlatan Ibrahimović: "It's already writ who will win... (The World Cup)"

He knows that the 2022 World Cup is rigged and favoured for Argentina.pic.twitter.com/8eA1bTbOf2

— Everything Cristiano ???? (@EverythingCR7_) September 5, 2023