This Spain vs Argentina World Cup final promises to be a spectacle for the ages.
On the pitch it will be a clash of generations, with a 39-year-old Lionel Messi looking to defend his crown against rising star Lamine Yamal.
Off the pitch, there is the historical context to consider. Argentina was under Spanish colonial rule for over 200 years before declaring their independence in 1816. The strong Argentinian diaspora that has resulted will mean a strong support for the defending champions across Spain.
But there are even some natives who will be hoping to see blue and white confetti, not red and yellow, when the two face off on Sunday.
And the reason can be summed up in one word — Messi.
Lionel Messi is bigger than Spain in Catalonia
The history of Catalonia is steeped in separatism, identity and a struggle for independence. The autonomous community of eight million people is located in the north-east of Spain, with Barcelona as its capital.
There have been referendums for Catalan independence as recently as 2017. They speak their own language, have their own traditions, and feel separate from the national identity of Spain.
It’s for that very reason that support for Spain at the World Cup is not a given. In fact, many locals feel a stronger fealty to FC Barcelona’s greatest-ever player, Messi.
Messi is seen almost as a deity by the fans who saw him rise through the ranks at Barcelona and take the team to unparalleled success at the top of the sport.
The presence of some of Barcelona’s biggest stars — such as Yamal, Pedri and Pau Cubarsi — means there is some reason to favour the Spanish in most fixtures. If, however, Messi is on the other side, the decision becomes rather simple.
Even during the knockout stages, the streets of Barcelona were just as packed after wins from Argentina as from the reigning European champions.
It tells you everything you need to know about the legend of Messi. He inspires devotion from fans like few before him, and that will be evident across Catalonia tonight.
Barcelona fans across the world are winning tonight
For Barca fans coming into this game as neutrals, the World Cup final is a win-win.
Either the most beloved name in the club’s history puts a bow on his GOAT legacy with a second World Cup in what could be his last tournament, or Barcelona’s new starboy adds a World Cup to his resume at just 19 years of age.
The narrative is nothing short of astonishing. From the picture of a baby Yamal with Messi to meeting in a World Cup final. If you’re a Barcelona fan, there’s going to be something to celebrate when the full-time whistle goes.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
