Argentina captain Lionel Messi has praised Spain winger Lamine Yamal ahead of Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final, describing the teenage sensation as one of the world’s best players and a global icon.
Speaking during an interaction with seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady on Friday, the Inter Miami forward said he has closely followed Yamal’s development because of the youngster’s exploits at Barcelona, the club where Messi built 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 at MetLife Stadium will pit Messi’s Argentina against Yamal’s Spain in what promises to be one of the tournament’s biggest clashes.
Messi is chasing history as he aims to become the first footballer to captain a team to back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles.
Yamal, meanwhile, has the opportunity to make history by becoming the second-youngest player to start and win a World Cup final if Spain triumph over the defending champions.
