Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois insists there is Courtois says no problem with Yamal despite the fiery El Clásico clash with Barcelona’s young star Lamine Yamal. After a heated post-match confrontation involving Yamal, Dani Carvajal and other players, Courtois stepped in to cool tensions and praised the teenager publicly.
In a recent interview with COPE, Courtois acknowledged that Yamal’s pre-match comments—where he jokingly accused Real Madrid of “stealing and complaining”—had stirred emotions. However, the Belgian shot-stopper emphasized that none of it is personal. “For me, Lamine is a great player and will be a player who will mark an era at Barça,” Courtois said.
He added that any conflict on the field stops there. Courtois observed that in a high-intensity match like El Clásico, words can be said in the heat of the moment. “Sometimes you say things that you later regret … but I think that’s what a Clásico is like,” he noted. Importantly, he vowed there’s no ill will off the pitch: “If I see Lamine in a restaurant tomorrow, I’ll say hello. I don’t think there’s any problem between Lamine and me.”
Courtois also defended Yamal’s passion. He argued that the challenge and fire that Yamal brings help motivate Real Madrid: “Sometimes we need that atmosphere … even when they’ve won, they haven’t shown us any respect.”
His remarks come amid intense scrutiny over Yamal’s behaviour and remarks, but Courtois’ stance suggests long-term respect rather than resentment. While the rivalry remains fierce, at least one key figure in Madrid is clear on where he stands—and it’s not deep personal conflict.
#Vitus@GTS
