Lamine Yamal takes shot at Madrid before Clásico

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has sparked controversy ahead of Sunday’s LaLiga showdown against Real Madrid after making remarks interpreted as a swipe at the league leaders.

The 18-year-old, speaking on Gerard Piqué’s Kings League YouTube channel this week, appeared to liken Madrid to rivals in the fan-led competition, suggesting they “rob and complain” — a comment widely viewed as a dig at the club’s perceived history of benefiting from refereeing decisions.

Madrid and Barcelona meet at the Santiago Bernabéu this weekend with just two points separating the sides after nine rounds of LaLiga. Madrid sit top on 23 points, with Barcelona close behind as they look to close the gap under coach Hansi Flick.

Yamal’s comments add spice to a fixture already rich in narrative. The teenager, one of Spain’s brightest prospects, has developed a reputation for confidence both on and off the pitch. Last season, he scored three goals and provided two assists in four Clásico meetings, helping Barcelona secure victories in LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercopa.

In April, following Barça’s Copa del Rey comeback win over Madrid, Yamal declared that Madrid “could not handle” his side. Days later, he doubled down, saying: “While I’m winning, they can’t say anything — when they beat me, they can.”

Despite being hampered by a groin injury this season, Yamal has contributed three goals and five assists in seven appearances, maintaining his role as one of Flick’s key attacking outlets.

Sunday’s Clásico is expected to test both clubs’ early-season credentials. For Barcelona, it offers a chance to reclaim top spot and assert Flick’s growing influence. For Yamal, it is another opportunity to back up his words with performance against Madrid’s experienced defence.