Real Madrid’s rising star Arda Guler has played down comparisons with Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal ahead of Turkey’s crucial clash with Spain in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The 20-year-old midfielder, who has quickly established himself as a starter under new Los Blancos boss Xabi Alonso, praised Yamal but insisted their playing styles are very different.
Speaking to reporters before Sunday’s game in Konya, Guler said:
“Me and Lamine Yamal don’t play in the same position, our styles are different, it wouldn’t be right to compare. He plays for Barcelona and I for Real Madrid, I wish him all the best for tomorrow.”
The Madrid youngster also admitted Yamal poses a real threat:
“I am not surprised by what Lamine Yamal has been doing. He has a lot of talent and will do his utmost to make it difficult for us.”
Yamal has been in sensational form, coming off a season where he scored 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 games for Barcelona. The 17-year-old has already contributed five goals and assists in the first three La Liga games this season.
Guler, meanwhile, has also made a bright start under Alonso, registering a goal and an assist in Madrid’s opening three matches. The Turkish international will look to shine on home soil as he takes on the reigning European champions Spain, who brushed aside Bulgaria 3-0 earlier this week with Yamal providing an assist.
The Turkey vs Spain clash in Konya promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the qualifiers, with two of Europe’s brightest young stars set to collide.
