Lionel Messi salutes Lamine Yamal ahead of FIFA World Cup final showdown

Speaking during Fanatics Fest in New York on Friday, Messi was asked about the viral image by NFL legend Tom Brady. The photograph, taken when Yamal was a baby, has become one of football's most talked-about images as the pair prepare to meet on the biggest stage in the sport.

Messi admitted he never imagined the child in the picture would one day be standing between Argentina and another World Cup title.

"I really enjoyed seeing that photo again. It's amazing how life works," Messi said.

"I took a picture with him when he was just a baby and now we're both competing in a World Cup.

"Honestly, it seems crazy, but he's already one of the best in the world, no doubt. I wish him luck, especially because what's good for him is also good for Barcelona."

The Argentina captain also spoke warmly about Barcelona, the club where he became one of football's greatest players, and praised the impact Yamal has already made.

"Barca is a wonderful club, which I follow closely because I love it and always wish it the best," Messi said.

"He is now one of the most important figures in world football and, at just 19 years old, has his whole career ahead of him. He has a great opportunity to achieve something historic on Sunday, and we will do our best to make sure that doesn't happen this time. But in the end, I just want to wish him the best."

Despite his admiration for Spain's teenage star, Messi made it clear Argentina's priority is stopping Yamal from influencing the final.

"We'll try to play a good game so that he can't perform at his best," Messi said.

"We know it will be tough. Both he and Spain are very strong. They have fantastic players and play incredible football."

Argentina are chasing a second successive World Cup title, while Spain are aiming to lift the trophy for the first time since 2010 when the two teams meet at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday.