Pedro Sanchez has brushed aside questions over the prospect of US President Donald Trump presenting the World Cup trophy if Spain win tonight’s final against Argentina.

Speaking to Spanish broadcaster TVE from New York ahead of kick-off, Sanchez said he was far more interested in who lifted the trophy than who handed it over.

‘I’m less concerned about who gives out the trophy than who receives it,’ he said. ‘I hope it’s the Spanish national team.’

Trump is expected to present the World Cup to the winners following the final at MetLife Stadium, where he and Sanchez will both be in attendance despite recent tensions between Washington and Madrid.

If the pair meet in the VIP box, Sanchez said he would congratulate Trump on the 250th anniversary of US independence and stress that Spain and the US have ‘many things that unite us’ despite political disagreements.

The Prime Minister also used the interview to rally Spain ahead of what he described as a ‘historic day’.

‘We are facing the dream final,’ he said. ‘May the best team win – and may the best team be Spain.’

Quoting legendary former Spain manager Luis Aragones, Sanchez added: ‘Finals aren’t played, they’re won.’

He praised head coach Luis de la Fuente for his tactical decisions throughout the tournament and hailed Spain’s young squad for its resilience, diversity and team spirit.

Sanchez also argued that La Roja had helped unite a politically divided Spain and reflected a country admired around the world for its values.

Looking beyond tonight’s final, he said Spain was ready to take over as co-host of the 2030 World Cup alongside Portugal and Morocco.

‘I’m convinced we’ll do an even better job,’ he said.