Mario Lemina’s ‘who is Lamine Yamal?’ comment resurfaces ahead of Barcelona clash

Galatasaray midfielder Mario Lemina has attracted renewed attention ahead of his side’s Champions League meeting with Barcelona after his past comments about Spanish youngster Lamine Yamal resurfaced on social media.

The Gabon international made the remarks during an interview in August 2025, when he was asked to choose between Barcelona winger Yamal and his Galatasaray teammate Leroy Sane.

Lemina responded: “Who is Lamine Yamal?” I don’t know him. I know sane”.

His answer has drawn criticism from some Barcelona supporters, who viewed the comment as dismissive of Yamal’s growing reputation in European football.

Lemina’s comments return to the spotlight

Although the interview took place months ago, the approaching meeting between Galatasaray and Barcelona has brought the exchange back into public discussion.

The clip has circulated again across social media platforms, particularly among Barcelona fans, reigniting debate over Lemina’s comparison of the two wingers.

Yamal has continued to attract attention as one of Europe’s prominent young talents, adding further significance to the midfielder’s earlier remarks.

Support for Sane or a dig at Yamal?

It remains unclear whether Lemina intended his response as a joke or as a provocation aimed at Barcelona supporters.

The midfielder may simply have been showing his preference for Sane, his teammate at Galatasaray, when asked to compare the German winger with Yamal.

However, the comments have become an additional talking point ahead of the European encounter, adding another layer of interest to a match that will be decided on the pitch.

With attention turning to the meeting between the two clubs, Lemina’s old remarks have ensured that the Gabonese midfielder will be part of the pre-match conversation.