As Spain national football team clash against reigning champions Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026, Borja Iglesias has grabbed significant spotlight due to his sarcastic remark on Donald Trump. As the US President attends the summit showdown in New York, New Jersey, the Spanish striker was asked about his potential meeting with Trump. Iglesias might find the opportunity to greet the President off the field, as he remains out of the Spain starting lineup. Luis de la Fuente continued with his usual set-up, as even Fabian Ruiz was preferred over Barcelona midfielder Pedri.
Why is Borja Iglesias not playing in Spain vs Argentina final?
Ahead of the final, Spanish magazine Panenka asked Borja Iglesias how he would react if he had to greet the US President after the match. Responding with humour, Iglesias said, “I will shake hands with Trump, but I hope it’s quick… I don’t want to go to jail,” as quoted by Italian news outlet ‘Il Messaggero’.
The Celta Vigo striker, who is known in Spain for his outspoken views on social issues, elaborated further on his response. “I hope to greet him at a time when we are all very happy, and that it ends very quickly so I can forget about it,” he added.
Iglesias also made it clear that he did not want the occasion to become a political controversy. “I don’t want to go to jail for refusing. I don’t think this is the time to create controversy because people already know very well what I think. I would like to do many things, but the reality is that even if people think I am omnipotent, I don’t really have that much power to deal with certain issues,” as per Il Messaggero.
Following his remarks, which stirred a buzz among fans, Iglesias didn’t start in the Spain vs Argentina World Cup final.
Spain Eyes 2nd FIFA World Cup Title
While Iglesias’ comments have attracted attention off the pitch, Spain remain firmly focused on their bid for a second FIFA World Cup title.
Luis de la Fuente’s side head into the final after an outstanding campaign in which they have conceded just one goal, becoming the first team in men’s World Cup history to keep six clean sheets in a single edition.
Following an opening 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, Spain have won six straight matches, eliminating Austria, Portugal, Belgium and France to reach the final.
Argentina, meanwhile, are chasing back-to-back World Cup titles after producing another dramatic comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the semifinals. Lionel Scaloni’s side have won 14 consecutive matches and are looking to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to defend the World Cup crown successfully.
The final will also be the first-ever World Cup title clash between the reigning European champions and the reigning Copa America champions.
(With inputs from ANI)
