Argentina captain Lionel Messi has described it as “crazy” that he will face Spain’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, years after a now-famous photograph showed him holding the future star as a baby.
Addressing reporters on Friday ahead of the showpiece, Messi reflected on the remarkable coincidence, saying the image had taken on a whole new meaning with both players now preparing to meet on football’s biggest stage.
“That picture with Lamine is incredible. Now we are facing each other in a final after a photo was taken of us when he was a baby, it’s just crazy!” Messi said, according to ESPN.
The Argentine skipper admitted he was looking forward to an exciting contest but joked that he hoped Yamal would not play a decisive role for Spain.
“We’ll try to put on a good match, but I hope he and his team don’t put on a good one,” he added.
Messi also praised the Barcelona prodigy, describing him as one of the best players in world football despite his young age, while expressing hope that his development would continue after the final.
“He’s one of the best in the world right now. I wish him luck because his success will be Barcelona’s success, but we’ll try to keep him from playing at his best. Spain has a great team, not just him. We have our own weapons, too.”
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner further hailed Yamal’s talent, insisting the teenager has a bright future ahead of him.
“He’s a tremendous player. A global star. He’s 19 years old and has his whole career ahead of him. I wish him the best, but we’ll give it our all to ensure he doesn’t become champion this time,” Messi said.
The widely shared photograph was taken by Spanish photographer Joan Monfort during a charity calendar project organised by Sport newspaper and UNICEF at Barcelona’s Camp Nou.
Years later, Yamal rose through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy to establish himself as one of football’s brightest young talents, setting the stage for a memorable World Cup final meeting with the man who once cradled him as an infant.
Monfort said the image had gained enormous attention worldwide as anticipation built for Sunday’s final.
“The photo has exploded all over the world, and the fact that the final is in the U.S. has given it an extra push.
“And now this has culminated in the final between Messi and Yamal. It is better than any film script,” Monfort told The Associated Press.
Messi heads into the final in exceptional form after scoring eight goals and registering four assists to inspire Argentina to a third World Cup final of his career, following appearances in 2014 and 2022.
The 39-year-old is tied with France forward Kylian Mbappé in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot as Argentina bid to retain the World Cup title.
The final will also serve as the first competitive meeting between reigning European champions Spain and Copa América holders Argentina after their scheduled Finalissima in March, which was due to be played in Qatar, was cancelled because of the conflict in the Middle East.
