La Masia’s impact evident in 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina

The 2026 World Cup final in New York, featuring Spain and Argentina, highlighted a remarkable connection between two generations of players developed at La Masia. At the heart of this was Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal — representatives of different eras united by the same club and philosophy.

Messi joined the academy in 2000 at the age of 13, progressing through all youth levels to become one of football’s most celebrated players. Lamine Yamal entered La Masia in 2014, completing his formative years within Barcelona’s youth system and gaining recognition as one of the most precocious talents worldwide.

Alongside Messi and Yamal, other La Masia graduates appeared in the final: Pau Cubarsí, Dani Olmo, Marc Cucurella, Eric García, Alejandro Grimaldo, and Gavi. Each developed under Barcelona's consistent methodology and playing philosophy, emphasizing technical skills and style from an early age.

Pau Cubarsí joined from Girona in 2018 at the infant level and has shown steady progression. Dani Olmo began at La Masia in 2007 aged nine before expanding his experience in Croatia. Marc Cucurella arrived in 2012 to play at the infant level and eventually made his first-team debut. Eric García entered at the benjamín stage in 2008, left for Manchester City, and later returned. Alejandro Grimaldo came from Valencia in 2008, later moving on to Benfica. Gavi arrived at La Masia at age 11 in 2015, rapidly advancing to become a key first-team player.

Víctor Muñoz, who spent part of his developmental years (2014-2017) in La Masia, is also among its graduates continuing professional careers.

The World Cup final reaffirmed that La Masia does not just produce one-off talents but entire generations capable of performing at the highest level. Messi represents the academy’s legacy; Lamine Yamal symbolizes its present and future.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta was present in New Jersey, emphasizing the importance of this event for the club. La Masia’s methodology continues to influence global football development and serves as a model for academies worldwide.