Barcelona wonderkid names Real Madrid defender as his ‘toughest opponent’ | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal’s month ended in the worst possible way when he was injured in Barcelona’s clash against Leganes and the player is now ruled out for three to four weeks.

For Real Madrid, this comes as big news as it puts the player’s participation in a potential Spanish Super Cup final in doubt and it could well be a Clasico.

While indeed it would only be fitting for a player of the Golden Boy winner’s calibre to play on the night, it comes as a big possible letoff for Carlo Ancelotti’s men who have held nothing but respect for him.

After all, Real Madrid even promptly aided in the investigation to help find those to racially abused Yamal at the Santiago Bernabeu earlier this year.

The respect goes both ways

Speaking to MARCA in a recent interview, the Barcelona starlet was asked about who the toughest opponent he has faced in a rival team was, and he did not hesitate in naming a Real Madrid star with complete respect.

“Toughest opponent? In training, Araujo. As a rival? Maybe Ferland Mendy.”

Mendy is currently injured. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Coming from the Golden Boy who is largely considered one of the best young talents in the world in his position, this is high praise for Mendy who has been under pressure in recent months.

With Alphonso Davies coming in, Real Madrid are looking to transition to a setup with a more attacking left-back.

Yet, acknowledgement like this makes one realise the importance of a defensively proficient full-back which Mendy has proven to be.

The Frenchman is currently injured and is expected to return early next month. While the club are yet to give any estimation of his time out, they will hope he is back in time to face Yamal in a potential Super Cup final should the youngster recover.