World Cup winner and Spain's all-time leading scorer David Villa has backed his former national side to lift the trophy at FIFA World Cup 2026, following their commanding 2-0 victory over Austria.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily, Villa joined host Rick Edwards to reflect on Spain's latest performance and offer his assessment of a squad he believes has the quality to go all the way in this tournament.

Villa's verdict on Oyarzabal and Spain's chances

The former striker highlighted Mikel Oyarzabal as a key figure in Spain's setup, emphasising the forward's importance to the team's style and attacking ambition. Villa drew on his own experience of winning the World Cup to outline what he believes is required to claim football's biggest prize.

Villa also shared fond memories of lining up alongside Lionel Messi, a partnership that shaped one of club football's most celebrated eras. He offered kind words for England as well, stating plainly: