At 18 years old, Lamine Yamal is already considered by many as the best player in the world in terms of potential. His impact at Barça has been as brutal as it has been precocious, and there isn't a match where he doesn't draw all the attention. Although he didn't deliver his best performance against Rayo Vallecano, he was once again the most self-critical after the match, admitting that the team "lacked intensity" to secure the three points.
Those kinds of statements show his character and leadership. They also expose him. While nobody doubts his talent on the field, frictions are starting to arise off the field, especially during the Spanish national team's training camp.
According to El Nacional, Lamine is having problems coexisting with several teammates.
Internal clashes in La Roja
One of the most talked-about tensions is with Fermín López, his teammate at Barça. It all stems from a previous conflict: Gavi is reportedly at odds with Fermín, and Lamine, who is close to the player from Los Palacios, has clearly taken his side.
Although none of those involved have made it public, the atmosphere inside the locker room has become tense. The looks, the silences, and the small gestures make the difference.
This division doesn't just affect Barça's group. According to the same sources, Dani Carvajal and Dean Huijsen, from Real Madrid, have also had their disagreements with Lamine. The reason? His provocative attitude toward Madridism.
On social media, in statements, or even in gestures on the field, Lamine has never hidden his anti-Madridism, something that doesn't sit well with some of the national team's veterans.
The double-edged sword of being a star
These kinds of conflicts are almost inevitable when such a young player takes on so much prominence in such a short time. Lamine is being treated like a superstar, and he is one. He also needs to manage that fame in an environment where egos, historic rivalries, and unwritten internal codes coexist.
At Barça they protect him, although they know they can't prevent the national team's tensions from affecting the group. Gavi, Fermín, and Lamine should be the core of Barça's future, but right now that harmony is broken. If things aren't put back on track, it could have consequences both on and off the field.
A challenge for De la Fuente
The national coach, Luis de la Fuente, now faces the challenge of ensuring coexistence among the young players. If Lamine is already the jewel of La Roja, he needs an environment where he can shine without conflicts.