Pau Cubarsí: Facing Lionel Messi in 2026 World Cup Final Would Be a Childhood Dream Realised

Nineteen-year-old Spain international Pau Cubarsí has stated that a World Cup final appearance against Lionel Messi would represent the realisation of a dream he has carried since childhood, with the Barcelona defender speaking candidly about the possibility as the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America moves toward its knockout phase.

Cubarsí, who has established himself as one of the most promising centre-backs in world football during a rapid rise through Barcelona’s ranks, was unambiguous about the personal significance such a fixture would carry. “It would be a dream come true, especially because it would mean I’m in a World Cup final. It would be a chance to win it,” he said. “If it were against Messi, it really would be a dream I’ve had since I was a child. Our whole family have always supported Barça, and ever since I was a child, he’s always been our idol and role model, and I’m really looking forward to meeting him.”

The comments reflect a generational dynamic that has become increasingly prominent at this tournament. Cubarsí, born in 2007, came of age watching Messi define what it meant to be a Barcelona player across a career spanning more than two decades at the Camp Nou. The Argentine, now representing his country at what is widely regarded as his final World Cup, lifted the trophy with Argentina at the 2022 edition in Qatar, ending a long wait for international glory that had defined much of his later career.

For Cubarsí, the journey from supporter to potential final opponent encapsulates his remarkable trajectory. The defender made his senior debut for Barcelona at 16 and has since become a regular starter under manager Hansi Flick, earning recognition as one of Europe’s most composed young defenders. His performances for La Roja at this tournament have continued that upward curve, with Spain progressing through the group stage in North America.

Argentina, meanwhile, have also advanced from their group, keeping alive the prospect of the final Cubarsí envisions. Should both nations continue their respective campaigns through the knockout rounds, a Spain versus Argentina final would carry significant weight beyond the personal narrative — it would pit the reigning world champions against one of the tournament’s most decorated nations, with Messi potentially playing on the grandest stage for the last time as a professional.

Spain arrive at this tournament with genuine ambitions of their own, having won the UEFA European Championship in 2024, defeating England in the final in Berlin. That success, built largely around a core of young, technically gifted players, has positioned Luis de la Fuente’s side as credible contenders to add a fourth World Cup title to their collection, having previously won the tournament in 2010 in South Africa.

Cubarsí’s remarks also underline the cultural weight Messi continues to carry even among the next generation of elite players. At 37, the Inter Miami forward remains active at international level and continues to serve as a reference point for young players worldwide, a standing that appears undiminished by the years that have passed since his prime at Barcelona.

With both nations progressing and the knockout rounds now approaching, the scenario Cubarsí described remains a realistic, if not yet certain, outcome as the 2026 World Cup builds toward its conclusion.