Barcelona celebrates 9 La Masia graduates in 2026 World Cup Final
La Masia will be well-represented in the World Cup final as nine academy graduates prepare to face off between Spain and Argentina.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Author: Diliff
FC Barcelona has highlighted the reach of its academy, La Masia, noting that nine players developed in its youth system will feature in the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.
The group includes Lionel Messi, who has been instrumental in guiding Argentina to the tournament's final match. Representing the Spanish side are Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Pau Cubarsi, Dani Olmo, Eric Garcia, Marc Cucurella, Alejandro Grimaldo, and Victor Munoz. Their presence serves as a testament to the continued influence of Barcelona's youth development in world football.
Messi remains the most iconic figure to emerge from the club's ranks, providing leadership and decisive moments throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, the Spanish squad relies heavily on La Masia products; Yamal has emerged as a standout talent, while Cubarsi and Cucurella have anchored the defensive line with maturity and consistency.
Regardless of Sunday's outcome, the club’s youth model is guaranteed to produce winners, as Barcelona graduates will be present on both sides of the pitch. This success underscores the academy's role as a cornerstone of talent for elite international football.