Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino has acknowledged the difficulty of neutralising Lionel Messi as Spain prepares for their World Cup final against Argentina on Sunday, July 19, 2026, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Merino described facing Messi as a “huge challenge” and an “incredible motivation” for himself and the entire team during a news conference on Friday, July 17, at Spain’s training base in East Hanover, New Jersey. He expressed happiness at playing against a side that has previously won the trophy, highlighting the significance of the match.

At 39, Argentina captain Messi has been instrumental in leading the defending champions to the final, including orchestrating a 2-1 semifinal victory over England with two assists. Messi is the tournament’s joint top-scorer with eight goals and notably inspired a dramatic comeback against Egypt in the last 16, when Argentina overturned a 2-0 deficit with 11 minutes remaining to win 3-2.

Merino, an Arsenal player, has been a key figure for Spain, coming off the bench to score late winners in both the last-16 victory over Portugal and the quarterfinal win against Belgium. He also praised the “impressive” talent of 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, who will face Messi for the first time in a contest symbolising the past and future of FC Barcelona.

Reflecting on Spain’s football heritage, Merino said he did not have “very clear memories” of Spain’s first World Cup title in 2010 but recalled the admiration for that team. He described representing Spain today and inspiring new generations as “something magical.”

Sources