Messi reportedly supported Argentina’s decision that resulted in the cancellation of an important pre-World Cup test.

Jacobs stated that UEFA initially tried to keep the event alive by moving it to Spain.

One idea included holding the Finalissima at the Santiago Bernabeu with equal fan representation from both countries.

Another proposal suggested a two-legged match, with one game in Madrid and the other in Buenos Aires before Euro 2028 and Copa America. Both of these ideas were ultimately rejected.

According to Jacobs, Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, refused to play the match, and Messi was also against the alternative proposals.

The Argentina Football Association reportedly insisted on receiving the full hosting fee originally set for Qatar, even though a relocation would lower ticket and sponsorship revenues. In contrast, Spain was open to both proposals, even if it meant reduced earnings.

Spain’s 6–1 win over Argentina is still a concern

One reason Argentina hesitated to play in Madrid could be tied to one of their worst defeats in recent years.

In March 2018, Spain defeated Argentina 6–1 in a friendly without Messi, just months before the World Cup in Russia.

This result highlighted Argentina’s defensive problems and became a significant topic ahead of the tournament.

Jacobs noted that Argentina’s coaching staff felt this loss hindered their World Cup preparation. With the 2026 tournament approaching, they wanted to avoid risking another major defeat that could disrupt their plans.

As a result, Argentina’s biggest test before the next World Cup has now been removed from the schedule.

They were also set to face Qatar in another friendly after the Finalissima, but with that match canceled, plans for those games are now uncertain, and no new friendlies have been scheduled.