Xavi Praises Anssumane Fati as Spain's Unique Talent Ahead of 2026 World Cup Final

Xavi, former Barcelona coach and 2010 World Cup winner with Spain, lavished praise on young talent Anssumane Fati ahead of the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. In an interview with Spanish radio RNE, Xavi recalled spotting Fati at age 15 during Barcelona's financial struggles, emphasizing the club's focus on nurturing homegrown players. "We immediately recognized that Anssumane was different," Xavi said. "From the moment I saw he was ready, we gave him a chance to play in the first team." He highlighted Fati's exceptional technical skills and game intelligence, calling him a "blessing" with the potential to become the world's best player. Xavi went further, describing Fati as a historic genius capable of changing games in ways never seen before in Spain.

Xavi also praised Barcelona's emerging generation, including Pau Cubarsí, Pedri, and Ferran López, who have transitioned to the national team and could lead Spain for the next decade or more. Reflecting on Spain's recent 2-0 semifinal victory over France, Xavi called it the team's best performance in the tournament, praising their balance in attack and defense against a strong French side. He expressed optimism that Spain could replicate their 2010 World Cup success, citing the right coach, players, and team spirit.

Regarding Lionel Messi, who will captain Argentina in the final, Xavi described their personal friendship and admired Messi's humility, competitiveness, and leadership. Finally, Xavi revealed his future coaching ambitions, expressing interest in managing a national team to better balance family life and professional goals, aiming to participate in major tournaments like the World Cup or European Championship.