Barcelona legends Xavi Hernandez and Javier Mascherano have praised the club’s influence on both Spain and Argentina ahead of Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final.
Speaking to Reuters in New York before the final, the former Barcelona teammates highlighted the impact the club has had on both finalists, from Spain’s young stars to Argentina captain Lionel Messi.
Spain’s squad includes several players developed through Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy, including Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí, who both made their first-team debuts under Xavi during his time as Barcelona manager.
Argentina, meanwhile, continue to rely on Messi, who at 39 has once again guided his country to the World Cup final.
Mascherano believes Messi remains a unique player despite his age.
“He is different from everyone else,” Mascherano said. “He continues to do things that we may never see another player do. I think it will be impossible to find another player like him.”
Xavi agreed, describing Messi as the greatest player in football history.
“I watched Argentina’s semi-final with Javier and we couldn’t believe what Messi was doing at 39,” Xavi said. “He is still making the difference. His ambition and attitude are incredible. In my opinion, he is the best in history.”
Xavi also spoke about the development of Spain’s young stars, saying he was proud to see Yamal and Cubarsí reach the World Cup final after giving them their first-team opportunities as teenagers.
“I remember they always told me they were ready,” Xavi said. “Even at such a young age, they showed great character and confidence.”
The former Barcelona midfielder believes both Spain and Argentina share a similar football philosophy based on keeping possession and controlling matches.
Mascherano agreed, saying both teams deserve to be in the final.
“For me, they are the two best teams in the tournament,” he said. “They both like to have the ball and control the game. I think this is the best final we could have.”
Neither former Barcelona star was willing to predict who will lift the trophy.
“You never know,” Mascherano said.
“So difficult to predict,” Xavi added.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 CET.
