Chelsea manager, Xabi Alonso has predicted the likely winner of the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy.

The former Real Madrid midfielder is confident that his country, Spain would win the World Cup as they prepare for one of the semi-final matches against France.

Reigning European champions, Spain must overcome France in the semi-finals to stand a chance of playing in the final for the first time since 2010.

Spain beat Austria convincingly in the round of 32 and eliminated their fierce rivals, Portugal, in the Round of Sixteen.

In their quarter-final against Belgium, the match appeared destined for extra time and potentially penalties until Arsenal’s Mikel Merino netted a late winner, propelling Spain into the semi-finals.

France has impressively won all six of their World Cup matches, scoring 16 goals while conceding only two.

But Alonso believes that the ‘really strong team’ Spain has ‘numerous reasons to be optimistic’ as they face France, and he is confident he can envision his fellow countrymen lifting the trophy.

“Watching all the Spain matches evokes many memories from the World Cup we won,” the Spanish legend told Chelsea official website according to Metro.

It is due to the team, the energy they exude, and their control over the games.

“We certainly have many reasons to be optimistic. Regardless of the outcome against France, it promises to be a fantastic match to witness, and I am genuinely looking forward to it.

“They possess a great team, and I can definitely see them winning this World Cup.”

Several players from Alonso’s Chelsea squad, including England’s Reece James and Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez, are still at the tournament.