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Former Barcelona star Rafinha surprisingly blames Lamine Yamal: 'His words gave extra motivation to Madrid'

Rafinha, while playing fort Barcelona in 2012, and Lamine Yamal.
© David Ramos/Angel Martinez/Getty ImagesRafinha, while playing fort Barcelona in 2012, and Lamine Yamal.

Amidst a wave of injuries, Barcelona was decisively defeated by Real Madrid, who, despite not dominating possession, commanded the offensive play. While the defensive sector left many questions unanswered, it was Lamine Yamal who bore the brunt of the criticism after his regular performance. Even former player Rafinha joined in, leaving his clear perspective on his pre-game statements.

On DAZN’s broadcast, former Barcelona player Rafinha analyzed Lamine Yamal’s situation, offering a clear perspective. He sinned through youth and a lack of maturity in saying what he said. His words gave extra motivation to Madrid,” he said. Adding to the opinion, former Real Madrid star Guti said, “Lamine Yamal is too young to know the history of Real Madrid and Barça. I too would have called him out on his words.”

Ahead of the match, Lamine Yamal participated in a Kings League Spain event, representing La Capital CF. During his speech, he criticized Real Madrid, saying they ‘stole and complained a lot,‘ a remark that incensed both fans and players like Vinicius and Dani Carvajal, who confronted him post-game. For that reason, Rafinha Alcantara noted that his comments inadvertently spurred Real Madrid players, fueling their motivation to secure a victory.

Blaming an 18-year-old for Barcelona’s defeat, despite Lamine’s imprecise words, seems misguided. Moreover, Yamal has been dealing with groin pain, which understandably affects his performance, highlighting the unfairness of criticism focused on pressure instead of his physical condition. On top of that, the absence of standout players like Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha notably impacted the Culers’ chances.

Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal and Barcelona star Lamine Yamal

Dani Carvajal of Real Madrid clashes with Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona.

Is Lamine Yamal still with physical discomfort? New report reveals details on the Barcelona star condition

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Following his injury during the UEFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers with Spain, Lamine Yamal made his return on October 18, featuring in pivotal matches against Girona and Olympiakos. Despite his offensive contributions, his physical sharpness seemed lacking, a fact underscored in the recent clash with Real Madrid. Now, a report sheds lights on his physical readiness previous the last game.

Vinicius opens up to Real Madrid fans after confrontation with Lamine Yamal and Barcelona in El Clásico win

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According to Gerard Romero at Jijantes FC, Lamine Yamal’s entourage informed Barcelona 15 days ago about the young player’s serious pubic discomfort. In response, the club is actively consulting medical specialists to prevent a potential injury relapse. Consequently, he might miss upcoming games to focus on a full recovery, with Raphinha targeting a November 1 return and the promising emergence of Roony Bardghji.

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EDITORS’ PICKS
Robert Lewandowski makes blunt claim about Lamine Yamal: ‘We didn’t see his best version in the World Cup’

Robert Lewandowski makes blunt claim about Lamine Yamal: ‘We didn’t see his best version in the World Cup’

Lamine Yamal made history by becoming one of the youngest players to ever win a World Cup during Spain's triumphant 2026 campaign. However, his former FC Barcelona teammate, and current Chicago Fire forward, Robert Lewandowski offered a candid assessment of the 19-year-old star: "We didn't see his best version in the World Cup." In an […]

Robert Lewandowski explains the reason behind Lamine Yamal’s 2026 World Cup inconsistent performances

Robert Lewandowski explains the reason behind Lamine Yamal’s 2026 World Cup inconsistent performances

Despite becoming a 2026 World Cup winner, Lamine Yamal has received a lot of criticism for his performances. In response, Robert Lewandowski has explained the reasons behind the inconsistent performances of the 19-year-old prodigy.

Lionel Messi’s touching message left Lamine Yamal with treasured memory beyond 2026 World Cup trophy

Lionel Messi’s touching message left Lamine Yamal with treasured memory beyond 2026 World Cup trophy

While Spain celebrated a dramatic victory over Argentina, a brief exchange between two Barcelona-linked stars captured the attention of supporters around the world and quickly became one of the defining images of the tournament.

Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappe left behind as Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland hit historic post-2026 World Cup market value record

Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappe left behind as Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland hit historic post-2026 World Cup market value record

Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland have surged ahead of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappe following Transfermarkt’s first market value update after the 2026 World Cup, marking another unprecedented shift in world soccer.

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