The simple fact that both are only 18 years old and defend the colors of the two biggest clubs in Spain – Real Madrid and FC Barcelona – led the Spanish press first and then the world press to begin to feed an inevitable comparison: Franco Mastantuono vs. Lamine Yamal.
Although their paths are different, the debate quickly grew. Mastantuono is just taking his first steps in European football, but since his arrival he has earned a place in the starting eleven at Real Madrid, leaving a great impression. Lamine Yamal, on the other hand, is already a consolidated reality: he is a key player for Barcelona, an undisputed starter with the Spanish national team and champion of Euro 2024, where he was one of the stars of the tournament.
Mastantuono: “I don’t compare myself to anyone”
Faced with repeated comparisons, the young Argentine decided to respond with maturity during an interview with DSports.
“Comparisons in football are there. Unfortunately, it is so for a matter of visibility, so that the notes make sense or the newspapers take out titles. It doesn’t bother me, but I don’t compare myself with anyone,” said Mastantuono.
Real Madrid’s right winger also highlighted Yamal’s talent, but made it clear that his focus is on continuing to grow individually.
“I try to do my job and for me and my team to do well. Lamine is a great player, he is having an incredible time and it is admirable, but I do not compare myself with him or anyone else. I prefer to look at my own, that is more important than looking at what others do,” he concluded.
The first face-to-face meeting: the Clasico on October 26
The expectation to see them face to face already has a date: October 26, 2025, when Real Madrid and Barcelona will meet at the Santiago Bernabeu for the 10th round of LaLiga 2025/2026.
If there are no unforeseen events, it will be the first Clasico between Mastantuono and Yamal, a duel that promises to capture worldwide attention.
But it might not be the only one. In January, they could meet again in the final of the Spanish Super Cup, if Madrid eliminates Atletico and Barca does the same with Athletic Club. In addition, another clash is expected at the Camp Nou during the second round of LaLiga, not to mention a possible meeting in the Copa del Rey or even in the Champions League.
The Finalissima, another possible scenario
Outside of club football, the two could cross paths again. Argentina and Spain are set to contest the Finalissima, a tournament that pits the Copa America winners against the European champions.
The duel would be scheduled between March 23 and 31, 2026, although it still depends on the agenda of the Spanish team. If it goes ahead, it would be the perfect stage for Mastantuono and Yamal to reaffirm why they are the most promising jewels in world football.
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