Spain captain Rodri warns team must raise level for Argentina final

Spain captain Rodri has issued a clear warning to his teammates ahead of the World Cup 2026 final against Argentina: the current level is not enough.

The Manchester City midfielder, a key figure in Spain's run to the final, said the team must raise its game significantly to overcome Lionel Messi's Argentina. Speaking to the press on the eve of the match, Rodri did not hide the scale of the challenge.

Rodri: 'We have to be better'

“We know what we have done to get here, but that is in the past. Argentina are the best team in the world right now. They have Messi, but they are not just Messi. We have to be better than we have been in any game so far,” Rodri said.

The midfielder pointed to Argentina's pressing game and transition speed as particular threats. He stressed that Spain's possession style would need to be sharper and more purposeful than in previous rounds.

“We cannot afford to lose the ball in dangerous areas. They punish you. Our focus has to be 100 per cent from the first minute,” he added.

La Masia flavour in the final

An interesting subplot to the final is the presence of nine players who came through Barcelona's La Masia academy. Both Spain and Argentina have drawn heavily from the famed youth system, giving the match a distinct Catalan flavour.

For Spain, Pedri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal are among those who learned their craft at La Masia. Argentina's squad includes Julian Alvarez, who also spent time at Barcelona's academy before moving to Manchester City. The connection underscores the enduring influence of Barcelona's footballing philosophy on the global game.

Messi: 'We will give it our all'

Argentina captain Lionel Messi, playing in what is likely his final World Cup match, said his team is fully focused on the task. “We will give it our all. Spain are a fantastic side, very difficult to play against. But we have our own strengths and we believe in ourselves,” Messi told reporters.

The 38-year-old forward has been in outstanding form throughout the tournament, leading Argentina to the final with a series of decisive performances. He dismissed talk of personal milestones, saying only the team result matters.

“I am not thinking about records or legacy. I am thinking about winning this game for my country. That is all that matters,” Messi said.

Mikel Merino: Human first, footballer second

Spain midfielder Mikel Merino, in an interview with The Guardian, offered a different perspective on the pressures of the final. He said the squad’s focus extends beyond football. “The focus is on being a good human first, then a good footballer. That helps us stay grounded,” Merino said.

He credited coach Luis de la Fuente for fostering a culture of humility and mutual respect within the squad. “We are not just teammates. We are friends. That bond shows on the pitch,” he added.

The match kicks off at a sold-out stadium, with millions expected to watch worldwide. Officials have confirmed the referee and VAR team, with strict security measures in place.

What happens next? The final will determine not just the World Cup winner, but possibly the last chapter of Messi’s international career. Kick-off is scheduled for Sunday evening local time.