Lamine Yamal’s antics have drawn a lot of criticism but his club captain has refused to comment on the youngster’s behaviour
Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo has reacted to the team’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid, choosing to steer clear of questions about teenage sensation Lamine Yamal after a heated El Clasico filled with tension, boos, and post-match scuffles.
The defender admitted the loss was painful but insisted that the squad must stay focused and move forward with plenty of football still to play this season.
Araujo keeps his distance amid post-match controversy
Following the defeat at the Bernabéu, Araujo faced reporters who pressed him on both the result and the growing noise surrounding Lamine Yamal.
Clearly frustrated but composed, the Uruguayan captain made it clear he was not interested in fueling further drama. “We leave sad for losing against our biggest rival. There are things to correct, but there is still a lot to play,” he said, before firmly drawing a line under questions about Yamal.
Ronald Araujo complains to the referee during El Clasico | Imago
“I’m not going to talk about Lamine Yamal today, he is a great professional and one of the best in the world. He is an adult and already knows what he has to do. I don’t care, I don’t know how they took it.”
His remarks suggested a deliberate attempt to defuse the situation, as post-match tensions spilled over between players and staff from both sides following Pedri’s red card.
Sorg defends Yamal after tough night against Madrid
Barcelona assistant coach Marcus Sorg also spoke about the 18-year-old winger, acknowledging the difficult atmosphere Yamal faced.
“It may have affected him (the boos). Maybe a little. He is learning to deal with the crowd, the whistles… It’s a process,” Sorg explained.
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Barcelona star Lamine Yamal | Credit: IMAGO/PA
He admitted Real Madrid often doubled up on the youngster to keep him quiet: “Often they played two against one and tried to prevent him from entering the area. It’s normal. He is young, he has to improve, and we will help him.”
Sorg added that Yamal is still building rhythm and match sharpness after returning from a brief injury spell, urging patience from fans and media alike. “He needs rhythm, games… He’s 18, and we have to give him time and help him.
“Opponents try everything against him. We have to work more and help him bring out his best version.”
