Oyarzabal on his relationship with Lamine Yamal: ‘We are completely different, but opposites attract’ | OneFootball

Mikel Oyarzabal says he and Lamine Yamal have contrasting personalities, yet their bond with Spain is strong. “We are completely different, maybe even opposites, but we get on very well,” he said in an interview with Marca. Both have been at Las Rozas since Tuesday preparing for four Nations League games against England, Croatia twice, and the Czech Republic in the coming weeks.

The Real Sociedad captain described himself as quiet and calm, in contrast to the young Barcelona player, and believes those differences help their connection. “Opposites often attract and I think my relationship with him is very good and positive,” he added. “I will try to help him however I can.”

Oyarzabal also praised Yamal’s impact. “He is a difference-maker, not only for what he does, but for the effect he has on opponents and on his team-mates.”

Asked about other team-mates, he said he and Unai Simón are a little more alike than either is to Yamal.

Oyarzabal said he can be slow to open up, though those who know him enjoy his sense of humour. He credited his parents, family and childhood friends for the humility and discretion that shape him, and said he tries to face situations calmly while accepting there are stressful moments.

He has taken in his stride a viral nickname in recent weeks, “the low-cortisol man”. “It has become famous and, well, I adapt, what can I say?”

Source: Diario Vasco

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”