Messi Sends Message to Spain Star Lamine Yamal Ahead of World Cup Final

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has wished Spain winger Lamine Yamal the very best ahead of Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final, describing the teenage sensation as one of the finest players in world football.

Speaking during an interaction with seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady on Friday, the Inter Miami forward praised Yamal’s rapid rise in the game, calling him a global icon despite his young age.

Messi revealed that he has closely followed the Spanish international’s development because of his connection with Barcelona, the club where he spent the majority of his legendary career.

“Yamal is one of the best in the world right now,” Messi said.

“Lamine is a fantastic player, whom I followed closely because he plays for a club I love and always wish the best for. He’s a global icon at just 19 years old.”

The World Cup final will see Messi lead defending champions Argentina against a Spain side inspired by the impressive performances of Yamal, who has emerged as one of the tournament’s standout players.

The match also presents an opportunity for both players to achieve remarkable milestones.

If Argentina defeat Spain, Messi would become the first footballer in history to captain his country to back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles.

For Yamal, victory would see him become the second-youngest player ever to start and win a FIFA World Cup final, further cementing his status as one of football’s brightest young stars.

Sunday’s final is expected to be one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament, with the experienced Messi aiming to extend his legendary legacy, while Yamal hopes to lead Spain to World Cup glory in what could be a defining moment of his burgeoning career.