Pep Guardiola names the two Spanish players who can decide the World Cup final

19.07.26 AET World Cup

Spain

1

:

Argentina

0

Former Man City boss Pep Guardiola revealed he is staying neutral for Sunday's World Cup final backing personal player connections instead.

Guardiola who recently ended his historic decade long, trophy laden spell with Manchester City, confirmed he will not be supporting a specific nation when Spain & Argentina battle for the global crown.

Speaking in an interview with the cryptocurrency platform OKX, the tactical mastermind, widely known for his proud Catalan roots, explained that his international allegiances are tied entirely to individual athletes he deeply respects or has previously mentored on the training pitch.

Connections across the finalists

The legendary manager noted that a tournament victory for either Argentina or France would mean celebrating the success of familiar faces.

He also expressed major admiration for Portugal's squad praising their deep tactical understanding of the game throughout the tournament.

However, turning his focus to the final matchup, Guardiola specifically highlighted La Roja's ultimate weapons. He stated that if world class anchor Rodri successfully controls the midfield tempo and teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal operates at his absolute best, the European champions possess the exact quality needed to make a devastating difference.

The catalyst of Rodri's rise

Guardiola's footballing philosophy heavily shadows Sunday's showpiece, particularly through his relationship with Rodri.

Under Pep's direct guidance in Manchester, the defensive midfielder transformed into the world's premier anchor, a developmental journey that culminated in his historic Ballon d'Or 2024 victory.

Guardiola has always championed the midfielder as the ultimate team first player who seamlessly makes everyone around him better, a trait Spain relies on completely to dictate matches.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Spain

Argentina

World Cup