Beyond El Clásico! Lamine Yamal Is Going Through a Serious Dip in Form
Lamine Yamal remains in the spotlight — but not for his brilliance. Between the Clásico controversy and his recent dip in form, the young star faces his toughest moment yet.
From Prodigy to Pressure
El Clásico left scars at FC Barcelona, and one of them bears the name Lamine Yamal. The young winger, who dazzled last season with a stunning goal in Barça’s 4-0 win at the Bernabéu, is now living a very different reality.
Before the match, his controversial remarks on the Kings League — claiming that “Real Madrid steal and complain” — fired up the Madrid locker room and set the tone for a heated encounter. During the game, Dani Carvajal and Vinícius Jr. confronted him, and after the final whistle, criticism came from all sides.
But the main issue wasn’t what happened off the pitch — it was what didn’t happen on it. Lamine struggled to make an impact, looked hesitant, and failed to lead the attack in a game that demanded his best version. “Too many back passes,” Vinícius told him mid-match — a phrase that summed up the night for Barça’s No. 10.
A Penalty Goal That Masks His Struggles
Earlier in the week, Lamine Yamal found the net from the penalty spot against Olympiacos, a goal that slightly masked his ongoing struggles. Despite scoring, the teenager looked far from his sharpest self — lacking acceleration, creativity, and effectiveness. He completed just 4 of 9 dribbles and rarely threatened the opposing defense.
Inside the club, there’s no concern about a relapse of his pubalgia, the injury that sidelined him recently, but there is awareness that his rhythm and confidence are not where they should be. Manager Hansi Flick has kept faith in him but delivered a pointed message: “He’s exceptional, but he must stay focused on working.”
More Noise Off the Pitch Than On It
At just 18 years old, Lamine has become a media phenomenon as much as a footballer. From social media posts and friendly games to appearances on the Kings League, his constant exposure worries Barça’s staff, who fear it’s affecting his concentration.
Flick hinted at this recently when speaking about egos in the locker room, reminding everyone that talent alone isn’t enough — discipline and focus must follow.
The coming weeks will be crucial. With a quiet training schedule and an upcoming league match against Elche, Barça expects Lamine Yamal to rediscover his spark.
Because at Camp Nou, they know one thing for sure: Lamine needs to shine on the pitch again — not outside of it.
