Facing idol fuels Olmo's drive in World Cup final against Messi

Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo says that playing opposite his childhood idol Lionel Messi gives him extra motivation as Spain prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina. He insists the squad’s confidence rests on performances, not optimism, and that they have earned the right to see themselves as favourites. With Spain one win away from becoming world champions, Olmo believes Luis de la Fuente’s side have earned the right to see themselves as favourites despite standing opposite Lionel Messi and the defending champions. He stresses that the squad’s confidence has been built on performances rather than optimism alone. Speaking in an extensive interview with Mundo Deportivo, the Barcelona midfielder discussed Spain’s form, the challenge of facing Argentina and his role between midfield and attack. Olmo said, “I’m feeling great, very confident, and very comfortable in those positions. The team is performing at a spectacular level, and we feed off each other’s energy.” He added that this collective energy ultimately helps the team compete better and aim to win.

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When asked about Messi, Olmo acknowledged the Argentine captain’s spectacular World Cup, calling him “a player to be reckoned with” and noting that Spain have faced him like any other opponent. He recalled a childhood photograph of himself watching Messi at the Castelldefels ground, describing the encounter as a “twist of fate” that now pits them against each other in the final.

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Olmo emphasized that personal sentiment will not affect the match, stating, “Playing against Messi might give you extra motivation, but at the end of the day we have to beat the best in the world.” He also mentioned encouragement from 2010 World Cup winner Carles Puyol, who told the current group to enjoy themselves and go for it, reinforcing the belief of La Roja.