The fallout from El Clásico continues to dominate Spanish football headlines, as former Barcelona president Joan Gaspart weighed in on the growing controversy between Lamine Yamal and Dani Carvajal. Speaking on the show La Posesión, Gaspart both defended Yamal and criticized Carvajal, while also offering some advice to the young Barça star.
🔹 “Who the Hell Is Carvajal?” – Gaspart Defends Yamal
Gaspart was openly dismissive of the Real Madrid captain’s actions following Sunday’s heated 2–1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“Who the hell is Carvajal?” he exclaimed. “He’s been a great player, but he’s finished. Why should Lamine call him when his comments weren’t even directed at him?”
The former president went on to suggest that the issue had been blown out of proportion, adding that it would likely end with a handshake the next time both players meet with the Spanish national team.
🔹 Background: From Irony to Tension
The tension between Yamal and Carvajal stems from remarks the Barcelona youngster made during Gerard Piqué’s Kings League, held a day before El Clásico.
Speaking humorously, Yamal compared Ibai Llanos’ team with Real Madrid, joking:
“They steal, they complain…”
Although intended as irony, the comments struck a nerve inside Madrid’s dressing room. After the game, Carvajal was seen gesturing toward Yamal, clearly referencing those remarks — sparking a brief on-field confrontation and post-match debate.
🔹 “Yamal Must Take Care of Himself”
Gaspart also took the opportunity to discuss Yamal’s physical condition and the need to manage his workload carefully, given his young age.
“If Lamine isn’t at 100 percent, he should stop and recover. He must not play when he’s not fully fit — that would only give people excuses,” Gaspart explained.
🔹 A Message to the Young Star
While defending Yamal against criticism, Gaspart reminded the 18-year-old of his responsibility toward the Barcelona fan base.
“He has to remember that Barça is bigger than any player,” Gaspart said. “The fans adore him, and he cannot disappoint them. He must win back their full support and understand that even though he’s only 18, he’s paid like a 30-year-old professional.”
🔹 Looking Ahead
Despite his fiery comments, Gaspart downplayed the likelihood of lasting tension between the Spain teammates, insisting the episode will soon be forgotten.
“This won’t go any further,” he concluded. “When they meet with the national team, they’ll shake hands and move on.”