In an interview with El Mundo ahead of the 2026 World Cup final, the 42-year-old former midfielder was asked to identify similarities between Spain's 2010 World Cup-winning generation and the current national team. Iniesta emphasized that collective spirit is the bedrock of all success.

Emirates Club midfielder Andres Iniesta passes the ball during a match against Ajman at Emirates Club in Ras Al Khaimah on 25/8/2023. Photo: AFP

"You cannot win the World Cup with one person; that is impossible", he stated. "You need to cultivate a football identity, something Spain has upheld for many years. However, what truly distinguishes a team is its collective strength. Players must recognize they always have teammates ready to assist in critical moments, willing to exert extra effort for the shared objective. That is the ultimate key to success."

El Mundo interpreted Iniesta's remarks as a timely reminder, given the media's intense focus on Lionel Messi leading up to the final. Argentina approaches the championship match with their 39-year-old captain as the pivotal force in their gameplay, dominating all key statistics. In contrast, Spain features rising star Lamine Yamal but does not exhibit an over-reliance on the 19-year-old.

Iniesta emphasized that while talent is essential for reaching the World Cup final, it is never enough on its own. "For me, the paramount elements are hard work, dedication, and passion", he asserted. "Those are the qualities we embodied, and this current generation is demonstrating them as well."

Coach Luis de la Fuente instructs Spain players during a water break in the 2026 World Cup semifinal match, where they defeated France 2-0 at Dallas, Arlington, Texas, US on 14/7/2026. Photo: Reuters

The 2010 World Cup winner also declined to claim individual credit for his iconic goal against the Netherlands in the final, scored 16 years ago in Johannesburg, South Africa.

When questioned about which Spain player he hoped would score the decisive goal against Argentina, Iniesta responded that any player would suffice. What matters, he explained, is for someone to score and experience the same indescribable moment he once cherished. The former Barca midfielder reiterated that his famous goal was a collective team effort.

Iniesta acknowledged that Argentina would likely enjoy greater fan support at the MetLife Stadium final, largely due to Messi's immense appeal. He drew parallels to the 2010 final, where Dutch supporters significantly outnumbered Spain's. Consequently, after he scored in the 116th minute, the stadium fell almost silent. Iniesta expressed his hope that the current generation of players could replicate such a feat.

Nevertheless, he offered a clear piece of advice to Luis de la Fuente and his squad: "Spain must remain true to the identity and playing style that propelled them to the final. That path holds the potential for championship glory."

Iniesta was also questioned about Lionel Messi, his close teammate at Barca from 2004 to 2018. When a reporter suggested Messi was a genius but "it's best he doesn't win this time", the former Spain midfielder subtly implied that his former colleague would understand his desire for Argentina's defeat.

At 42, Iniesta is embarking on a new career chapter. After residing in Dubai, he is preparing to commence a coaching role at Gulf United FC in the UAE second division. The former midfielder expressed that he is still in a learning phase and eager to apply the extensive experience gained throughout his playing career to this new endeavor.

By Hoang An (via El Mundo)