Former Spanish defender Joan Capdevila appealed to US President Donald Trump for help after his request to enter the United States to attend the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, the title holders, on Sunday was denied.

Capdevila, who was a member of Spain's 2010 World Cup-winning team, said his request was rejected because he participated in an exhibition match featuring La Liga stars in Iran in 2016.

Capdevila (48) addressed Trump in a social media post asking for his assistance.

Capdevila wrote in his post: 'I was just told that I cannot travel to the final match with my children because my request for an electronic travel authorization has been rejected.'

Obtaining an electronic travel authorization is a requirement for visa-free travel to the United States.

He added: 'Can anyone help me with this? You cannot imagine how excited I am to be there with all my 2010 teammates and to cheer for this team. I can't believe they won't let me enter the United States and that I will miss such a moment with my children, who love football so much.'

Reuters contacted the US State Department for comment.

Capdevila also mentioned the Spanish Ministry of Sports in his post and appealed to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for assistance.