Arda Guler Breaks Silence on Lamine Yamal Rivalry: "Not Surprised" by Constant Comparisons
Real Madrid rising star Arda Güler has acknowledged he "comprehends" the parallels drawn with Barcelona's Lamine Yamal before Türkiye's World Cup qualifying match against Spain this Sunday evening.
Türkiye are seeking their maiden triumph over the Spanish since 1967 in Konya, having kicked off their qualifying journey with a 3–2 victory against Georgia. As Euro 2024 quarterfinalists, Vincenzo Montella's squad holds ambitions of participating in only their third World Cup in 2026.
Nevertheless, having the European champions in their group suggests that, most probably, they'll need to accept a playoff position.
Madrid midfielder Güler represents the emerging face of the Turkish national squad, and the ex-Fenerbahçe talent is set to assume a significant role for Xabi Alonso's Madrid team this campaign after limited appearances under Carlo Ancelotti.
Alonso holds great admiration for the 20-year-old, and many have speculated whether the exceptionally gifted Güler might emerge in the Spanish capital similarly to how Yamal has at Barça. Numerous parallels have been drawn between both players leading up to Sunday's qualifier, with Spain coach Luis de la Fuente calling them both "exceptional footballers".
Güler faced the media before Yamal and Spain's arrival, with journalists eager to hear his thoughts on the growing comparisons.
"I don't have much to comment about Lamine Yamal," he shared with reporters. "We don't operate in identical positions. However, I still comprehend the parallels, since he's with Barcelona and I'm with Real Madrid.
"I hope for his success. I'm not shocked by what Lamine is accomplishing. He possesses great talent and will do everything possible to challenge us."
Türkiye manager Montella was eager to commend Madrid colleague Alonso for his confidence in Güler, challenging the young midfielder beyond his usual boundaries to help him achieve his maximum potential.
"Arda has featured regularly for Real Madrid since late last season," Montella stated. "He possesses enormous talent and exceptional ability. He can operate in any position, and he's doing so in deeper [midfield] roles.
"Xabi Alonso has challenged him to embrace different responsibilities."
Following Sunday's encounter, both players will probably face each other again in the opening El Clásico of 2025–26 on October 26. Yamal's Barça have controlled recent Clásicos, claiming victory in the last four meetings.