Inter Milan striker Marcus Thuram has caused a stir on social media after taking a swipe at Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal following their Champions League semifinal clash on Tuesday night.
The two players, who faced off in the high-stakes encounter in Milan, had a brief altercation during the game, which saw Inter emerge victorious.
Thuram, who had been seen comforting the young Yamal at the final whistle, later posted a mocking message on social media aimed at the 17-year-old’s pre-match remarks.
In the lead-up to the match, Yamal, who has Moroccan and Equatorial Guinean roots, posted the words “On a mission” on his social media accounts, seemingly signaling his determination for the pivotal encounter.
Thuram, seizing the opportunity for a playful jab, posted a response the following day: “On a mission ehh!!” accompanied by two crying emojis.
The post quickly drew attention, with many fans and pundits taking notice of the playful rivalry between the two.
However, Thuram wasted little time in removing the post, opting to replace it with a more conciliatory message.
The new post read, “Greatness recognises greatness,” a shift in tone that sought to acknowledge Yamal’s rising potential and abilities, despite the earlier jest.
The quick reversal of Thuram’s post highlights the complexities of modern football culture, where public interactions between players, especially young stars, are scrutinized and often subject to swift changes.
Thuram’s actions on social media have sparked debate over the line between playful rivalry and disrespect.
