Argentina captain Lionel Messi has warned against reducing the strength of the Spanish national team to its young star Lamine Yamal, stressing that Argentina's opponent in the World Cup final boasts a group of outstanding players and a clear playing identity.

Speaking at a fan event in New York ahead of the 2026 World Cup final, Messi said: "Spain is not just Lamine; they have many great players and a distinctive style of play. We also have our weapons."

Messi praised Lamine Yamal's talent, calling him a "global reference" despite his young age, adding: "He has a chance to achieve a historic feat, but we will try to give our best to prevent that this time."

Related News

Messi also recalled the famous photo of him with a baby Lamine Yamal during a charity photo shoot in 2007, saying: "To have a photo with him as a child and now meet in a World Cup final is crazy. He is one of the best players in the world right now, and I wish him all the best."

Argentina and Spain will meet on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in the 2026 World Cup final.