The stage is set for a clash of continental champions at the highly anticipated Finalissima.
That is when the winners of Euro 2024, Spain, will battle against Copa America 2024 champions Argentina. Argentina lifted the Finalissima trophy after defeating Italy at Wembley Stadium in June 2022.
That’s only one thing on diehard football fans‘ minds, though. They eagerly want to see the epic clash between veteran Messi and his Barcelona protege, Lamine Yamal.
17 years ago, Messi linked up with baby Yamal for pictures at Barcelona. A 20-year-old Messi can be seen bathing 6-month-old Yamal as part of a charity campaign that paired Blaugrana footballers with infants. The date with destiny appears to have been a passing of the baton. Teenage sensation Lamine already starts for the Catalan giants, contributing a goal and four assists in four matches this 24/25 this season.
Will the Finalissima be played in 2024 or 2025?
With a large number of matches played these days at both club and international levels, the Finalissima is unlikely to occur this year. The game will most likely take place sometime in 2025 or early 2026. FC Barcelona has also expressed interest in hosting the Finalissima at their newly renovated Camp Nou in March 2026.
“I don’t know if the Finalissima is going to happen,” said Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni addressing scheduling concerns.
“From what I’ve been told, it’ll be tough to fit in with Spain’s schedule. I don’t see it happening next year. Maybe they’ll find a gap, but I’m not thinking about it right now.”
Scaloni’s side takes on Colombia in a World Cup qualifier tomorrow at the Estadio Metropolitano. Messi won’t be there. He’s still nursing a nagging injury from the Copa America finals this summer that’s also kept him out of a return to Inter Miami.
“I spoke with Leo before releasing the squad list, and he told me he’s improving,” added Scaloni in his press conference.
United States to host Finalissima in 2026?
According to Argentine outlet Olé, the Finalissima could be pushed out until March 2026. Instead of Wembley hosting the match again, it could be played in the United States at New York’s Metlife Stadium or Los Angeles’ Sofi Stadium as a prelude to the World Cup.
While the venue and date are open for debate and Conmebol and UEFA ignore the Saudi siren please, how picturesque would it be if the match took place at Camp Nou? It could be Messi’s last game for La Albiceleste, after all.
