Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has ignited pre-Clasico controversy by claiming Real Madrid “steal” during a cheeky exchange on Twitch. The 18-year-old made the remark while chatting with streamer Ibai Llanos, comparing Madrid to a Kings League team known for benefiting from refereeing decisions. The comment comes just days before El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Yamal stirs controversy ahead of El Clasico
Barca sensation Yamal has sparked uproar in Spain after boldly accusing Madrid of benefiting from refereeing decisions, describing them as a team that “steals and complains.” The Barcelona prodigy made the explosive remark during a broadcast on Kings League, just days before Clasico against Los Blancos.
When asked by Ibai Llanos, owner of Kings League side Porcinos FC, whether his team reminded him of Real Madrid, Yamal didn’t hesitate. “Yes, of course, they steal, they complain…” he said, prompting laughter and disbelief from those on the stream. Llanos, a well-known Madrid supporter, immediately pushed back, asking, “Real Madrid steals?” To which Yamal doubled down, laughing nervously before reaffirming, “Well, let’s see, let’s see.”
The comment has since gone viral across Spanish media and social platforms. The timing, however, could not be more controversial, just days before Barca travel to the Bernabeu in a high-powered La Liga clash.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportInside Yamal’s cheeky exchange with Ibai Llanos
The exchange came as part of a lighthearted discussion between Yamal, Llanos, and Gerard Pique, the former Barca defender who co-founded the Kings League. Yamal, who co-owns the Kings League club La Capital FC, was discussing his upcoming fixture against Ibai’s team, Porcinos, when the topic of Real Madrid naturally arose.
Pique jokingly stoked the rivalry, while Yamal’s response carried a sting. “They steal, they complain, and they do things…” said the Barcelona winger, alluding to what many Barca fans have long believed, that Real Madrid receives favourable treatment from referees.
Despite his youthful tone and playful delivery, Yamal’s remarks have added extra spice to an already heated build-up to Clasico. His comments follow a long line of pre-Clasico mind games.
Focus on Clasico showdown at the Bernabeu
Barca will face Real Madrid at the Bernabeu this Sunday in a match that could decide early leadership of La Liga. Hansi Flick’s side currently trail Xabi Alonso’s men by two points, and a victory would see the Catalans leapfrog their rivals into first place.
Yamal’s comment, while made in jest, could add pressure ahead of one of the most-watched games in world football. The 18-year-old is expected to start on the right wing after producing a string of impressive performances this season, including eight direct goal contributions in just seven La Liga appearances.
Yamal’s self-assurance underlines his growing importance in Flick’s system, where his creativity, pace, and composure have made him one of the defining faces of Barcelona’s new era.
Madrid, meanwhile, have remained silent publicly, focusing on preparation under Alonso after a tough-win in the Champions League game against Juventus. The club’s fans, however, are expected to make their feelings known when Yamal steps onto the Bernabeu turf this weekend.
With tensions high, form stakes tight, and personal rivalries simmering, Clasico once again promises to deliver football, theatre, and controversy in equal measure, and Yamal finds himself right at the heart of it all.
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This weekend’s encounter will also renew the rivalry between two of football’s biggest generational stars, French superstar Kylian Mbappe and Yamal. The pair have already faced off eight times across club and international competitions, with Yamal holding an extraordinary record of seven wins to Mbappe’s single victory.
While Mbappe has outscored the Barcaa youngster in those meetings, eight goals to six, Yamal’s teams have consistently come out on top, including a memorable 5-2 Supercopa de Espana victory and a 3-2 Copa del Rey triumph. The French forward, now spearheading Madrid’s attack, will be eager to rewrite that record in front of home fans.
Yamal’s form heading into the Clasico has been impressive despite Barcelona’s mixed start to the campaign. With three goals and eight assists already this season, he continues to showcase the balance between flair and maturity that has made him Europe’s most exciting teenager. His performances have not only drawn praise from Flick but also earned him a runner-up finish in the 2025 Ballon d’Or at just 18 years old.
