Messi praises Spain ahead of a major clash, highlighting Barcelona links and the quality of players expected to make the match difficult

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has praised Spain’s quality ahead of their upcoming meeting, admitting the European side will present a difficult challenge while highlighting his continued affection for Barcelona and its players.

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The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he is familiar with several members of the Spain squad, particularly those currently representing his former club Barcelona, a team he described as one he still loves and follows closely.

“Spain are very good and I know many of the players; a lot of them are at Barça, the team I LOVE and still follow,” Messi said.

The Argentine forward added that the encounter would require a strong performance from his side because of Spain’s technical ability and depth.

“It’ll be a very difficult match,” Messi said.

Messi’s comments underline the unique connection between the World Cup winner and Barcelona, where he spent more than two decades and became the club’s greatest goalscorer before leaving in 2021.

During his time at Camp Nou, Messi developed alongside generations of Barcelona players and formed a deep bond with the club’s supporters. His admiration for the current squad reflects the lasting influence of his years in Catalonia.

Spain’s recent rise has been built around a talented group of technically gifted players, many of whom have emerged from Barcelona’s youth system and continue to play a key role at club and international level.

The meeting carries additional significance as Messi prepares to face a side featuring players he knows well, adding another layer of interest to an already highly anticipated contest.

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With both teams possessing elite attacking talent and strong footballing identities, the clash is expected to be a demanding test of quality, experience and tactical discipline.