This weekend’s LaLiga ElClásico will witness a high-stakes matchup as 25-year-old Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid takes on 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona.
Despite their youth, both players are already among the world’s most valuable athletes, valued at €180 million and €150 million, respectively, according to the transfer market.
Though Real Madrid has had a mixed start to the season, Mbappé is in strong form with six league goals, proving essential to Madrid’s offence alongside Brazilian star Vinícius Jr. Meanwhile, Yamal continues to shine with four goals and six assists, leading LaLiga in assists and displaying extraordinary skill for his age.
The two forwards met three times before this ElClásico, most notably in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals last season, where Mbappé helped Paris Saint-Germain defeat Barcelona.
However, Yamal got the upper hand during the Euro 2024 semi-finals, scoring a stunning goal for Spain against Mbappé’s France, a strike later awarded as the tournament’s best goal.
This ElClásico brings back memories of past greats, with fans eager to see if Mbappé and Yamal will ignite a rivalry similar to the iconic clashes between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.