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Lionel Messi has expressed pride after leading Argentina into the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, while also reaffirming his enduring affection for former club Barcelona.
Argentina booked their place in a second consecutive World Cup final with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over England, keeping alive their hopes of successfully defending the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
Praising his team’s performance, the Argentina captain highlighted their resilience and unity throughout the tournament.
“It’s incredible what this team has been doing. Today was another display of character, determination, unity, strength and football because we earned it through our play and patience,” Messi said.
Argentina will face Spain in Sunday’s final, a team Messi knows well after spending most of his career at Barcelona.
Calling Spain one of the strongest teams in international football, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he is familiar with both their style and many of their players.
“They are a tremendous team with outstanding players and a great style of play. It’s a football philosophy they’ve followed for many years, and I know the players,” he said.
Messi also admitted that his connection with Barcelona remains as strong as ever.
“Some of them play for Barça, a club I’ve always loved and continue to follow. It will be a special and very evenly matched game,” he added.
Sunday’s final will be Messi’s third FIFA World Cup final, matching Brazilian legend Cafu’s record for the most World Cup final appearances by a player. After finishing runner-up in 2014, Messi lifted the trophy in Qatar in 2022 and now has the chance to add another World Cup title to his remarkable career.