Deco crowns Messi a legend at the ‘Best Possible Final’ in New York

Barcelona sporting director Deco touched down in New York with club president Joan Laporta and advisor Alejandro Echevarria as the city buzzed ahead of Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and used the moment to hail Lionel Messi as a true legend who will always be one of ours. Deco praised Messi, calling the Argentine a true legend and insisting he will always be one of ours. Earlier in the week Deco watched Spain’s semi‑final victory in Dallas, saying it proved the tournament produced the ideal championship match. He expects the final to be unforgettable and believes the clash will showcase the very best of world football. Speaking to Cadena COPE in New York, Deco described the showdown as “The Best Possible Final”, the perfect way to decide the world champions, adding “Spain looked very good after the semi‑final, Argentina keep finding ways to win, and Leo has been spectacular.”

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When asked to pick a favourite, Deco refused, noting both sides feature outstanding players, praising Spain’s form after the semi‑final and highlighting Argentina’s fighting spirit that keeps them alive. Deco’s admiration for Messi was unmistakable; the pair shared a dressing room during their Barcelona days, and he said, “I’ll always support my own people, but my people are everywhere. Leo will always be one of ours.” Messi’s tournament record includes eight goals and four assists as Argentina progressed to the final, underscoring his spectacular contribution.

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Deco also pointed out the large Barcelona contingent representing Spain, with several young Barça players in the squad, and said the choice between “Leo on one side and our young Barça players on the other” is difficult, but the match will be spectacular. After the World Cup concludes, Deco is expected to return to Barcelona to oversee Karim Adeyemi’s official presentation and continue shaping Hansi Flick’s squad ahead of the new season.