Lionel Messi, Fernando Llorente and Xavi Among Stars of Copa del Rey Final

Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona face-off in the Copa del Rey final as two of the most exciting teams in Spain's La Liga. Along with their emblematic coaches, they bring an array of stars that could change the game at any instant. Here we provide you a list of the top eight stars to watch in Friday's final.

Fernando Llorente
With David Villa out with injury and Fernando Torres having the worst year of his career, Fernando Llorente emerged as the top Spanish striker the past season. "The Lion King" hopes to finish his club season with a top performance before joining the national team as it prepares for the Euro 2012.

Javi Martinez
The Athletic midfielder is one of the most solid, if not showy, players on the field. Against Barcelona, he will be important in trying to prevent the Catalan team from controlling the possession and pace of the game.

Marcelo Bielsa
It seems fitting that Pep Guardiola finish his career in Barcelona against the man that inspired him to become a manager. Bielsa has brought new spark to the team, leading it to the Europa League and Copa del Rey finals with a commitment to the attack that fans worldwide have come to love.

Iker Muniain
Dubbed the "Spanish Messi" for his speed and size, Iker Muniain, is a challenge for any defender trying to mark him and could make a huge difference against a Barcelona defense that has not played in two weeks. Due to his stellar club play, Muniain received his first call-up to the national team in February.

Lionel Messi
The Argentinean striker has already broken all the records in Spain and Europe during the season. Against Athletic Bilbao, he hopes to top off his accomplishments with another title for his mantle and farewell victory for Guardiola.

Alexis Sanchez
Recovering from yet another injury, the Chilean striker is expected to return to the line-up. After a roller-coaster year, Sanchez will be looking for a top performance to leave a good impression on the team before joining the national team for the FIFA World Cup 2014 qualifiers.

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Andres Iniesta
The diminutive midfielder has already stressed, in the buildup to the final, that he is committed to giving Guardiola a victory in his last match with the team. With his explosive and creative talent, Iniesta can change the rhythm of the match in an instant.

Xavi
The mastermind of the Barcelona offense will look to impose his team's style of play and prevent Bielsa's explosive team from gaining any rhythm. With Xavi on point, there seems little hope for Athletic Bilbao to find the rhythm it needs to pull off the upset.

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