On Sunday evening, two of the most talented youngsters in La Liga – Real Madrid’s Arda Guler and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal – will square off on the international stages.
Indeed, Turkey take on the Spanish national team tomorrow in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, bringing the two young prodigies face to face.
Given their young age and obvious quality, comparisons have been drawn between Guler and Yamal, with the rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona adding more edge to the battle between the wonderkids.
Spain manager on Guler-Yamal comparisons
Addressing the media in his press conference earlier today (h/t AS), Spain manager Luis de la Fuente was asked for his opinion on Arda Guler and Lamine Yamal and the comparisons between the two talented youngsters.
Praising both players, the La Roja head coach remarked: “Lamine Yamal and Guler are tremendous players with their characteristics and potential. Both are very good.”
Continuing, he added: “We have Lamine, who brings us so much joy. A young man eager to continue growing and improving, with ambition.”
Earlier in the day, Guler himself was asked about the comparisons between himself and Lamine, which the Real Madrid youngster was quick to downplay, stating that the two of them did not even play in the same position.
“Lamine Yamal and I don’t play in the same position, our styles are different, so it wouldn’t be right to compare. He plays for Barcelona and I for Real Madrid, I wish him all the best for tomorrow,” he had said.
Both Turkey and Spain go into tomorrow’s game on the back of victories earlier this week, with Guler and Yamal registering an assist each in their respective matches.
So, it will certainly be interesting to see who stands out in the battle between the Real Madrid and Barcelona young gems.