Messi Reflects on Iconic Photo with Spain's Yamal Ahead of 2026 World Cup Final

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, a special event took place in New York featuring representatives from both teams. Argentina was represented by Lionel Messi, coach Lionel Scaloni, and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, while Spain sent Luis de la Fuente and Rodri. The event also included sports stars Novak Djokovic, Kevin Durant, and Tom Brady, with the World Cup trophy displayed on stage.

During the event, Djokovic asked Messi how he manages pressure. Messi explained that growing up playing football with passion, the pressure was never a focus but rather a natural part of enjoying the game. He emphasized the importance of competition and learning from losses, which shaped him both as a player and a person.

Tom Brady inquired about Messi’s upcoming matchup with Spain’s young star, Anssumane "Lamine" Yamal, who plays for Barcelona. Messi praised Yamal as an incredible player with a promising career ahead and wished him success, while also expressing his determination to win the final. Messi also recalled a famous UNICEF campaign photo from 2007 showing him holding Yamal as a baby, calling the moment "crazy" given they will now face each other in a World Cup final.

Coach Scaloni, when asked if this might be Messi’s last World Cup, said he was unsure and that Messi continues to surprise everyone. Scaloni also shared a warm moment with Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente, his former UEFA Pro license instructor, describing their reunion as surreal and expressing mutual respect.

The event concluded with a group photo alongside the World Cup trophy, symbolizing the anticipation for the final showdown between Argentina and Spain.