Lionel Messi’s nod to Barcelona after Argentina qualify for World Cup final: ‘A club I’ve always loved’

Lionel Messi could not hide his pride after guiding Argentina into the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, but it was his affectionate words about Barcelona that caught the attention within the Blaugrana environment.

Argentina secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over England to book their place in a second successive World Cup final, keeping alive their hopes of defending the trophy won in Qatar four years ago.

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The result also moves Messi one step closer to another remarkable chapter in a career already filled with historic achievements.

Reflecting on the performance, the Argentina captain praised the spirit that has defined the national team throughout the tournament.

“It’s incredible what this team has been doing, and today is yet another display of character, determination, unity, strength, and football—because we went out and earned it through our play and with patience,” he emphasised.

Messi expects familiar challenge against Spain

Messi’s Argentina will face Lamine Yamal’s Spain in the final. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

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Standing between Argentina and consecutive World Cup titles is Spain, a side Messi knows perhaps better than any other international opponent.

After spending most of his career at Barcelona, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has faced and played alongside several members of Spain’s squad.

That connection was evident as he looked ahead to Sunday’s final, describing Spain as one of the most complete teams in international football.

“They are a tremendous team with outstanding players and great style of play—a team I know well.

“It’s a football philosophy; they’ve been playing this way for many years, and I know the players,” he said.

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Messi’s nod to Barcelona

Messi will play his third World Cup final. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Furthermore, Messi also admitted that his bond with Barcelona has never faded, despite leaving the Catalan club several years ago.

“I also know the players. I’ve faced many of them before, and I still follow them.

“Some play for Barça, a club I’ve always loved and continue to follow,” Messi said, acknowledging that “it will be a special game, very evenly matched.”

It must be remembered that it will be the third time Messi has appeared in a FIFA World Cup final, having previously fallen short against Germany in 2014, only to lift the trophy in Qatar eight years later.

By reaching another showpiece occasion, he will equal Brazil legend Cafu’s record as one of only two players to feature in three World Cup finals.

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