Barcelona legend Gerard Pique has come to the defense of young star Lamine Yamal, urging patience and understanding after the 18-year-old made controversial comments about Real Madrid ahead of El Clasico, sparking a rivalry debate.
In the lead-up to El Clasico, much has been made of comments made by Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal regarding Real Madrid, whom he claimed have “robbed teams”. This has led to a strong reaction, particularly from those within Los Blancos.
Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal intends to speak to Lamine Yamal regarding the matter, but according to Barcelona icon Gerard Pique, the 18-year-old should simply be left alone, as per Jijantes (via Diario AS).
“Let’s accept what Lamine is like. Obviously, you’re going to gain experience. No one is the same at 18 as at 38. Lamine Yamal is very special.
“That they criticise him from Real Madrid? It is understandable. They would like to have a Lamine. Lamine is special. We don’t know how long we will be able to enjoy him. Let’s not kill him. In today’s football you have to take care of yourself. All the players who are coming up now, experience football in a different way. But they take care of themselves. We have to accept it.”