Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo kept his cool after his team’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid, choosing not to comment on the growing noise surrounding teenage star Lamine Yamal.
It was a fiery El Clasico — filled with boos, clashes, and late drama — but Araujo refused to be dragged into controversy, showing leadership and calm amidst chaos.
“We leave sad for losing against our biggest rival. There are things to correct, but there is still a lot to play,” Araujo told reporters after the match.
When asked about Yamal’s on-field antics, the Uruguayan captain quickly shut down the topic:
“I’m not going to talk about Lamine Yamal today. He is a great professional and one of the best in the world. He already knows what he has to do.”
His comments appeared to be a strategic attempt to diffuse rising tensions after several heated exchanges on the pitch and Pedri’s red card, which further inflamed tempers.
Barcelona assistant coach Marcus Sorg stepped up to defend the 18-year-old winger, explaining that the pressure of playing in Madrid’s intense atmosphere could have affected him.
“It may have affected him — maybe a little. He is learning to deal with the crowd, the whistles… It’s a process,” Sorg said.
He noted that Real Madrid doubled up on Yamal to neutralize his threat:
“They played two against one to prevent him from entering the area. It’s normal. He is young, he has to improve, and we’ll help him.”
Sorg emphasized that patience is key as Yamal builds fitness and rhythm after his recent injury, adding:
“He needs rhythm, games, and confidence. We’ll work with him to bring out his best version.”
With the loss tightening the La Liga race, Barcelona must now regroup ahead of a busy fixture list. Araujo’s composure and Sorg’s public backing of Yamal highlight a club determined to stay united — even when the spotlight gets uncomfortable.
As the Catalans chase redemption, all eyes will be on how their teenage sensation responds to the criticism and pressure.
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