Real Madrid rising star praises Barcelona talisman, downplays comparisons | OneFootball

Ever since Franco Mastantuono signed for Real Madrid this past summer, comparisons have been drawn between him and Barcelona teenage superstar Lamine Yamal.

The Argentine prodigy, who turned 18 only a couple of months back, plays in the same position as Lamine and has started decently at the Santiago Bernabeu, becoming a regular starter for Xabi Alonso.

However, as far as comparisons with Lamine go, the two are far apart in terms of where they are in their careers, despite sharing the same age – one is just getting started in Europe, whereas the other is a Ballon d’Or runner-up and a two-time Kopa Trophy winner.

Mastantuono downplays comparison

And Mastantuono downplayed the comparisons with Lamine, while praising the Barcelona academy graduate.

In a recent interview with DSports (h/t SPORT), the Real Madrid teenage prodigy said:

“I think comparisons in football are always there, and unfortunately, also because of media exposure, and so stories make sense and newspapers can run headlines. Honestly, it doesn’t bother me,” he said.

Lamine Yamal is one of the best in the world. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Qatar Airways)

Continuing, he added: “I try not to compare myself to anyone, but to focus on my work and make sure that everything goes well for me and my team. I’ve always said that Lamine is a great player and that he’s in incredible form, and that’s admirable.

“But I don’t compare myself to him or anyone else. I just try to do what I have to do, and I know that will be much more important than worrying about what other players are doing, so I take it easy.”

Since joining Real Madrid in the summer, Mastantuono has made nine appearances, scoring and assisting one goal apiece.

With the first El Clasico of the season set to take place in two weeks, the Argentine international will come face-to-face with Yamal, provided the Barcelona gem recovers from his pubic discomfort by then.