How Spain Built A Foundation That Produced Its Current World Cup Stars

Lionel Messi is still Argentina’s undeniable star — the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer and the focal point of their attack — while Argentina leans on its galaxy of big-name teammates.
Spain is the opposite: a system-first side forged through the youth ranks under Luis de la Fuente (with Santi Denia), winning Euro 2024 and Olympic gold and conceding just one goal at this World Cup.
De la Fuente’s “fit-over-club” roster choices (notably no Real Madrid players) have paid off — setting up a final that’s essentially Messi vs. a highly organized Spanish collective.