It's not just another friendly. What's coming is a historic event that will pit two generations against each other, two ways of understanding soccer. Two countries hungry for glory.
Spain and Argentina will face off in the Finalissima 2026, a tournament that matches the European champion against the South American champion. This time it won't be at Wembley, as several cities are already competing to host an event of global proportions.
A clash of legends and promises
The intrigue is set. It'll be the first time Lamine Yamal and Leo Messi face each other on the same field.
One, Barça's gem, who at just 18 has become the flagbearer of the new Spain. The other, the eternal number 10, who at 38 continues to defy the passage of time as the absolute leader of the Albiceleste.
It's not just a match. It's the generational handover live. It's the past and the future of world soccer, face to face.
Venues in dispute
The date is already set: March 21, 2026. It'll be right in the middle of the FIFA window, with both national teams ready to compete at full strength.
The only thing left to decide is the venue. UEFA and CONMEBOL are considering several options.
Madrid (Santiago Bernabéu), London (Wembley), and Paris (Parc des Princes) are strong contenders. Even New York has shown interest, which would mean taking the spectacle to neutral ground. All for a global audience that promises record numbers.
At that time, Camp Nou still won't be ready to host Leo Messi's return.
Spain: all in
Under Luis de la Fuente's leadership, La Roja wants to confirm the qualitative leap shown at the European Championship. With Nico Williams, Pedri, Yamal, Cubarsí, Fabián, and Dani Olmo, the team has rejuvenated without losing competitiveness.
The goal will be to prove that European dominance can also prevail over South American talent. It'll be a huge challenge, especially with Messi and company on the other side.
Leo's last show?
In Argentina, nobody dares to say it, but everyone thinks it. This Finalissima could be one of the last times we see Messi wearing the Albiceleste jersey.
Although the "10" hasn't confirmed his farewell, the clock is ticking. Every match he plays could be the last.
It'll be special, no doubt. This time he's not facing Cristiano, nor Neymar.
He's facing the new era. Lamine Yamal is eager to show he's ready for anything.