Mikel Oyarzabal Explains His Unexpected Bond With Lamine Yamal

The Spain forward opened up about his relationship with the Barcelona star and explained why his impact goes far beyond what he does on the ball.

Two Completely Different Personalities

Mikel Oyarzabal opened up about his relationship with Lamine Yamal during Spain’s training camp ahead of upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against England, Croatia and the Czech Republic.

Speaking to Radio Marca, the Real Sociedad forward admitted that the two are very different personalities, but that has not stopped them from forming a strong bond inside the squad.

“It’s obvious that we’re completely different and probably polar opposites, but we get along very well, and I think sometimes opposites attract,” Oyarzabal said.

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Lamine Yamal’s Impact Goes Far Beyond the Ball

Oyarzabal also highlighted the influence the FC Barcelona winger can have on a match even before he receives possession.

“He’s different, not only because of what he does, but because of what he creates in the opponent and what he creates in his teammates,” he explained.

According to Oyarzabal, simply knowing Lamine is always available and capable of producing something decisive changes the way both teammates and opponents approach the game.

Oyarzabal Knows Where He Can Help

The forward also made clear that he does not expect to give Lamine too much advice when it comes to actually playing the game, because he is already one of the best players of Spain National Team.

“I’ll try to help him however I can. There’s not much I can help him with on the field or with playing football, because there’s not much I can tell him there,” Oyarzabal admitted.

His comments suggest that any support he can offer will be more about life inside the group than acting as a mentor on the pitch.

What Oyarzabal’s Comments Reveal About Lamine Yamal

Mikel Oyarzabal says he and Lamine Yamal are very different personalities but have built a strong relationship.
He believes Lamine’s value comes not only from his talent, but from the effect he has on opponents and teammates.
Oyarzabal says he can support the youngster off the field, while admitting he needs very little football advice.