Rafinha: Spanish-Moroccan Lamine Yamal showed ‘lack of maturity’ in Barcelona’s El Clasico defeat

Former Barcelona midfielder Rafinha Alcantara has criticised Spanish-Moroccan winger Lamine Yamal for showing ‘a lack of maturity’ during Barcelona’s 2–1 loss to Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The 18-year-old clashed repeatedly with Madrid’s Vinicius Junior and Dani Carvajal in a fiery El Clasico that saw tempers flare on both sides.

Yamal had stirred controversy before the game by suggesting Real Madrid “steal and complain,” remarks that many pundits felt added extra intensity to the clash.

Rafinha believes those comments played a role in motivating Los Blancos.

“He sinned through youth and a lack of maturity in saying what he said. His words gave extra motivation to Madrid,” he told DAZN.

Real Madrid took control through goals from Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, securing a vital 2–1 win that extended their lead at the top of La Liga to five points.

Mbappé missed a second-half penalty but Madrid remained dominant throughout.

Barcelona’s frustrations boiled over in the final stages when Pedri was sent off for a late challenge on Aurélien Tchouaméni, sparking heated exchanges between players and benches.

Yamal, who was closely marked throughout, struggled to impose himself against a disciplined Madrid defence.

Despite his talent and explosive pace, Rafinha believes the youngster still has lessons to learn about managing pressure and media attention at the elite level.

The defeat leaves Barcelona trailing their rivals in the title race, with head coach Hansi Flick urging his young team to stay focused amid rising scrutiny.