Argentina captain Lionel Messi has described the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain as a closely contested encounter, saying his familiarity with several members of the Spanish squad will add to the occasion.
According to a post by football outlet The Touchline on X on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Messi said many of Spain’s players currently represent Barcelona, the club where he spent more than two decades and which he continues to follow closely.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner acknowledged Spain’s quality and predicted that both teams would need to perform at their best to win the World Cup.
“I know many of the players, many of them are at Barcelona, the team I love and follow closely. It will be a very tight match,” Messi said.
Messi played for Barcelona for more than 20 years, during which he shared the dressing room with and mentored several Spanish internationals. His familiarity with their playing style could prove valuable as Argentina prepare for the final.
The World Cup final will pit the defending champions against a Spain side seeking another world title, with both nations aiming to end the tournament on a high.
Messi’s comments reflect Argentina’s respect for their opponents as the two international heavyweights prepare to battle for football’s biggest prize.
