This article was originally published on www.si.com as Report: Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal Set to Face Off for First Time in 2026. Reigning continental champions Argentina and Spain are set to play the Finalissima during the final international break before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Comparisons quickly surfaced between Lionel Messi’s $12 million salary at Inter Miami and Lamine Yamal’s lucrative new deal with FC Barcelona. Lamine Yamal recently signed a lucrative contract extension with FC Barcelona after emerging as one of the brightest young stars in world soccer at just 18 years old.

Barcelona have announced that Spanish star Lamine Yamal has signed a new deal with the club running until the summer 2031 and the 18-year-old will also wear the iconic number 10 starting from the 2025-26 season,