Argentina captain Lionel Messi called the 2007 photo of him bathing the then‑baby Lamine Yamal “incredible,” as both now face each other in the 2026 World Cup final.

The image, taken for a charity calendar at FC Barcelona by Sport and UNICEF, shows the young Spanish winger in a bathtub, a moment that has become a symbol of football destiny. Messi, 39, told the crowd at FIFA’s Fanatics Fest in New York that Yamal, 19, is “one of the best in the world right now.” He added that Spain’s squad has its own weapons, but the young talent will be “a global star.” Yamal’s teammate Mikel Merino echoed the sentiment, saying the photo looked “unbelievable.”

Yamal, who joined Barcelona at 16, has already made headlines for his blistering speed and skill. Messi, who has scored 8 goals and provided 4 assists in the tournament, will be looking to add a third World Cup final to his legacy. The photo has exploded worldwide, and the final being in the U.S. gives it extra push.

Messi, who is tied with Kylian Mbappé for the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot, aims to win back‑to‑back titles. Spain and Argentina had been slated to meet in the 2024 Finalissima, but the match was cancelled.